Chicago vs New York
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Chicago, IL and New York, NY?
Chicago and New York have similar restriction levels.
Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago discourages wildlife feeding through Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) guidelines and general nuisance provisions in MCC 7-28. Feeding wildlife that creates a public health nuisance or attracts rodents may result in enforcement action.
View full Chicago rules →New York, NY
New York County
NYC Health Code §161.09(d) prohibits feeding pigeons, and NYC Parks Rules §1-04(q) prohibit feeding wildlife in parks (except squirrels and birds at designated areas). Admin Code §17-195 specifically bans pigeon feeding citywide with fines up to $1,000.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Health Code | MCC 7-28 (nuisance/sanitation provisions) | - |
| Park Rules | Chicago Park District Code Ch. VII | - |
| CACC Guidance | Do not feed or approach wildlife | - |
| Rodent Standard | Feeding that attracts rodents is a nuisance | - |
| Fine Range | $200 - $500 for nuisance violations | - |
| Pigeon Feeding | - | Banned citywide (§17-195) |
| Parks Wildlife | - | Feeding prohibited (§1-04(q)) |
| Pigeon Fine | - | Up to $1,000 |
| Parks Fine | - | $50 |
| Feral Cats | - | Managed TNR colonies permitted |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chicago FAQ
Is it illegal to feed wild animals in Chicago?
There is no blanket ban, but feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance, attracts rodents, or violates sanitation codes can result in fines under MCC 7-28. The Chicago Park District prohibits unauthorized animal feeding in parks.
What should I do if I encounter a coyote in Chicago?
Do not feed or approach the animal. Contact Chicago Animal Care and Control at 311 if the coyote appears to pose a threat to public safety. CACC handles urban wildlife that is a nuisance or danger.
New York FAQ
Is it illegal to feed pigeons in NYC?
Yes. Admin Code §17-195 (Local Law 46 of 2007) prohibits feeding pigeons on any public or private property in NYC. Fines can reach $1,000. This applies citywide, not just in parks.
Can I feed birds in NYC parks?
Generally no. Parks Rules §1-04(q) prohibit feeding wildlife in parks. Some parks have designated bird feeding areas for songbirds, but feeding pigeons, geese, or other wildlife is prohibited.
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