Wildlife Feeding: Arlington Heights vs Skokie
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Skokie, IL?
Arlington Heights and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights discourages feeding wildlife and may enforce nuisance provisions when feeding attracts pest animals. The Village has addressed coyote management and deer populations as suburban wildlife concerns. Feeding deer is discouraged by the Village and Illinois DNR. Intentionally feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance can result in code enforcement action under property maintenance and public nuisance ordinances.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, raccoons, coyotes, squirrels, and geese on public and private property. Bird feeders are permitted but must not attract rodents or create nuisance conditions.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Feeding | Discouraged, enforceable as nuisance | - |
| Coyote Program | Active awareness and management | - |
| Bird Feeders | Permitted with proper maintenance | Allowed with cleanup |
| Deer Feeding | Discouraged by Village and IDNR | - |
| Code Enforcement | (847) 368-5200 | - |
| Deer/Coyote Feeding | - | Prohibited |
| Waterfowl | - | Do not feed in parks |
| Pet Food Outdoors | - | Not overnight |
| Contact | - | Code Enforcement (847) 933-8235 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I feed birds in my yard in Arlington Heights?
Yes. Bird feeders are generally permitted. Keep feeders clean, remove spilled seed regularly, and take feeders in at night if you notice rodent activity to avoid nuisance issues.
Is it illegal to feed deer in Arlington Heights?
While there is no specific deer-feeding ban, the Village and Illinois DNR strongly discourage it. Feeding deer concentrates populations, spreads disease, and can create nuisance conditions subject to enforcement.
What should I do about coyotes in my neighborhood?
Never feed coyotes. Secure trash, remove outdoor pet food, and keep small pets supervised. The Village maintains a coyote awareness program. Report aggressive coyote behavior to the non-emergency police line.
Skokie FAQ
Can I feed birds in Skokie?
Yes, using approved bird feeders. You must prevent seed spillage from attracting rats, and pet food cannot be left outside overnight.
Can I feed the ducks at the park in Skokie?
No. Feeding waterfowl in public parks or ponds is prohibited because it damages water quality and habituates birds to humans.
What about feral cats in Skokie?
Unmanaged feeding of feral cats is discouraged and may violate nuisance provisions. TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs with proper oversight may be exempt.
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