Michigan DNR prohibits deer baiting and feeding statewide due to chronic wasting disease (CWD). Wayne County cities ban feeding of raccoons, geese, and deer to reduce nuisance wildlife and bird flu risk.
Wildlife feeding in Wayne County is restricted by both Michigan state law and local ordinances. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) prohibits deer and elk baiting and feeding statewide in the Lower Peninsula to prevent chronic wasting disease transmission, with violations carrying fines up to 500 dollars. Detroit, Livonia, Dearborn, and most suburbs also prohibit feeding of raccoons, opossums, skunks, and Canada geese to reduce nuisance complaints and rabies vector exposure. Bird feeders for songbirds are generally allowed but must be maintained to avoid attracting rats, which is a significant issue in dense Detroit neighborhoods. Feral cat feeding is contentious and regulated by trap-neuter-return programs administered by Detroit Animal Welfare Group and Michigan Humane. Waterfowl feeding at Belle Isle, Hines Park, and along the Detroit River is actively discouraged due to avian influenza outbreaks in 2022 to 2025.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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See how Wayne County's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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