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Bucks County, PA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Some Restrictions

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Key Facts

Bear/Elk: Statewide ban
Deer DMA: Bucks outside as of 2025
Statute: 58 Pa. Code §137.33
Fines: $100 to $1,500

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Bucks County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Pennsylvania prohibits intentional feeding of bears and elk statewide under PA Game Commission regulations. Deer feeding is restricted in Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) management areas; Bucks County is not currently in a DMA.

Full Breakdown

Under 58 Pa. Code §137.33 and the PA Game Commission's bear feeding ban, intentionally feeding black bears is prohibited statewide. Feeding elk is similarly prohibited. Deer feeding is restricted in PA Game Commission Disease Management Areas (DMAs) established around CWD-positive detections, but Bucks County currently falls outside established DMAs (DMAs are concentrated in central and south-central PA as of 2025). Residents should still avoid feeding deer due to chronic wasting disease spread risk and habituation dangers. Unintentional feeding from unsecured trash, pet food left outdoors, and overflowing bird feeders may trigger warnings from PGC officers. Municipal ordinances (New Hope, Upper Bucks townships) may impose additional wildlife feeding restrictions for bear-prone areas. Feral cat colony management is separately regulated; TNR programs typically coordinate with local shelters.

Violations & Fines

PGC bear or elk feeding citation: $100 to $500 per offense under 34 Pa.C.S. penalties. Repeat violations: up to $1,500 and potential misdemeanor. Municipal wildlife feeding citations: $50 to $300. Trash attracting bears: code enforcement notice to secure containers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who enforces wildlife feeding rules in Bucks County?

Bucks County's code enforcement division is responsible for animals ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the Bucks County government website or by calling the main municipal line.

What are typical penalties for violating wildlife feeding rules?

Most Bucks County animals violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Bucks County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

How does Bucks County compare?

See how Bucks County's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.

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Bucks County, PA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

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