Wildlife Feeding: Arvada vs Lakewood
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Arvada, CO and Lakewood, CO?
Arvada and Lakewood have similar restriction levels.
Arvada, CO
Jefferson County
Arvada restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisance conditions.
View full Arvada rules →Lakewood, CO
Jefferson County
In Jefferson County, as statewide, it is illegal to intentionally feed big-game wildlife. Colorado Parks and Wildlife prohibits placing feed, salt, or attractants for deer, elk, pronghorn, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, and bears. Violators face a fine.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arvada | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Deer, coyotes, bears | - |
| Bird Feeders | May be restricted | - |
| Pet Food | Must not be left outside | - |
| Fines | $50 to $500 | - |
| Feeding big game | - | Illegal statewide |
| Enforcing agency | - | Colorado Parks & Wildlife |
| Covered animals | - | Deer, elk, bears, lions, sheep, etc. |
| Fine | - | $100 |
| County ordinance | - | None; state rule applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arvada FAQ
Can I feed birds in my yard?
Generally yes, but Arvada may restrict bird feeders in areas with bear or other wildlife activity. Check local rules.
Is it illegal to feed stray cats?
Feral cat colony management rules vary in Arvada. Casual feeding may violate wildlife feeding ordinances.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I feed the deer in my Jeffco yard?
No. Intentionally feeding deer and other big game is illegal in Colorado. It draws predators like mountain lions and bears toward homes and harms the animals.
Does Jefferson County have its own wildlife-feeding law?
No separate county ordinance. The statewide Colorado Parks and Wildlife prohibition on feeding big game applies, carrying a $100 fine.
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