Feeding wildlife such as deer, raccoons, and feral cats in Wilmington can trigger nuisance enforcement under Code Ch. 2 and Ch. 17 (Health). State law also prohibits feeding deer to limit chronic wasting disease spread.
Wilmington Code Ch. 2 (Animals) and Ch. 17 (Health) authorize action against residents whose feeding attracts rodents, raccoons, or other wildlife creating a nuisance. The Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife (Title 7) prohibits feeding deer statewide and discourages feeding waterfowl in city parks. Bird feeders are generally allowed but must be kept clean to avoid attracting rats. Feral cat colonies are managed through TNR programs run by partner organizations; uncoordinated feeding can violate sanitation rules.
Health code citations, fines, and orders to remove food sources. Deer feeding violations are prosecuted by DE Fish & Wildlife enforcement.
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See how Wilmington's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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