Lake County, FL Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- Feeding bears
- Prohibited (FWC)
- Rule
- FAC 68A-4.001
- Lake County
- Core bear habitat
- Enforced by
- FWC officers
- Penalty
- From $100 civil
Summary
Intentionally feeding bears, or leaving food or garbage that attracts them, is prohibited statewide by FWC rule (FAC 68A-4.001). Much of Lake County is black-bear habitat, so residents must secure trash and remove attractants. FWC, not the county, enforces wildlife-feeding rules.
Placing food or garbage, allowing the placement of food or garbage, or offering food or garbage that attracts bears and is likely to create or creates a nuisance is prohibited after receiving prior written notification from the Commission.
Full Breakdown
Lake County lies in Florida's core black-bear range, and wildlife feeding is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission under FAC 68A-4.001. Intentionally feeding bears is prohibited, and placing or allowing food or garbage that attracts bears and creates a nuisance is prohibited after prior written FWC notification. Residents are urged to use bear-resistant trash storage. General wildlife-feeding prohibitions in FAC 68A-4.001 also apply. This is a state rule enforced by FWC officers, not a Lake County ordinance.
Violations & Fines
Wildlife-feeding violations begin at a $100 civil penalty and escalate; serious bear-feeding offenses can be charged criminally (FAC 68A-4.001; FWC).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed bears or deer in Lake County?
Is there a Lake County ordinance on feeding wildlife?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lake County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Lake County to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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