Wildlife Feeding: Burlington vs Waltham
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Burlington, MA and Waltham, MA?
Burlington and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Burlington, MA
Middlesex County
Feeding wildlife in Middlesex County is restricted by local bylaws and MassWildlife rules. Intentionally feeding deer, bears, turkeys, and coyotes is prohibited statewide; bird feeding is generally allowed.
View full Burlington rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham discourages wildlife feeding to prevent conflicts with bears, coyotes, and turkeys increasingly seen near Prospect Hill and the Cambridge Reservoir.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Bear feeding | Banned statewide 321 CMR 2.13 | - |
| Deer/turkey | Banned in most towns | - |
| Bird feeders | Seasonal limits in bear areas | - |
| Waterfowl | Banned at most ponds | - |
| Fines | 50-500 dollars | - |
| State Rule | - | 321 CMR 2.14 |
| Bear Feeding | - | Prohibited statewide |
| Coyote Hotspots | - | Prospect Hill, Charles River |
| Bird Feeders | - | Allowed generally |
| Enforcement | - | MassWildlife + local |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burlington FAQ
Can I feed the ducks at Fresh Pond?
No. Cambridge prohibits feeding waterfowl at Fresh Pond Reservation and other public waters to protect water quality.
Are bird feeders legal?
Yes, but in towns with bear activity you may need to remove feeders April-November to avoid attracting bears.
Waltham FAQ
Can I feed backyard deer?
Intentional deer feeding is discouraged and can trigger state cessation orders.
Are bird feeders OK?
Yes, but must be managed if they attract bears or rats.
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