Clearwater vs Dunedin
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Dunedin, FL?
Dunedin has fewer restrictions than Clearwater.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater enforces Florida Statute 379.412 and FWC rules under Chapter 68A-4 prohibiting feeding of bears, alligators, sandhill cranes, pelicans, raccoons, and similar wildlife.
View full Clearwater rules →Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin defers to Florida law on wildlife feeding. FWC rules and Florida Statute 379.412 prohibit feeding bears, alligators, sandhill cranes, pelicans, and several other species, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses involving bears or alligators.
View full Dunedin rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Dunedin |
|---|---|---|
| State law | FS 379.412 | - |
| First offense | $100 civil penalty | - |
| Repeat | Second degree misdemeanor | - |
| Bear/gator | Escalates to first degree | - |
| Governing statute | - | Fla. Stat. 379.412 |
| First-offense fine | - | $100 civil |
| Felony threshold | - | 4th bear/alligator offense |
| Bird feeders | - | Generally allowed |
| Enforcement agency | - | FWC and local code |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
Is it illegal to feed pelicans on Clearwater Beach?
Yes. Florida Statute 379.412 and FWC rules prohibit feeding pelicans, gulls, and other listed wildlife. First violations carry a $100 civil penalty, and repeat offenses become criminal misdemeanors.
Can I feed raccoons or ducks in my Clearwater yard?
Feeding raccoons is prohibited under FWC rules because it spreads disease and habituates wildlife. Casual duck feeding is discouraged and can trigger nuisance complaints if it attracts pests or fouls waterways.
Dunedin FAQ
Can I feed ducks or seagulls at the marina?
Feeding pelicans is specifically prohibited and feeding gulls is discouraged because it conditions wildlife and creates nuisances. Local code can cite feeding that creates a sanitation problem.
What about backyard bird feeders?
Songbird, hummingbird, and squirrel feeders are allowed if kept clean and not attracting prohibited species like bears or raccoons. Bear-attracting feeders may be ordered removed.
Is feeding alligators ever legal?
No. Feeding any wild alligator is illegal under Florida law because it removes the animal's natural fear of humans, with penalties escalating from a fine to a felony for repeat offenses.
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