Clearwater vs Pinellas Park
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Pinellas Park, FL?
Pinellas Park 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 →Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas County
Pinellas County Code Section 14-30 prohibits feeding wild animals in a way that creates a public nuisance throughout Pinellas Park. Feeding bears, raccoons, coyotes, or feral cats that attracts wildlife or causes sanitation issues can result in citations.
View full Pinellas Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Pinellas Park |
|---|---|---|
| State law | FS 379.412 | - |
| First offense | $100 civil penalty | Typically warning |
| Repeat | Second degree misdemeanor | - |
| Bear/gator | Escalates to first degree | - |
| County code | - | Sec. 14-30 (public nuisance) |
| Bear/coyote feeding | - | Banned by FAC 68A-4.001 |
| Cat colony food | - | Remove within 3 hours |
| Enforcement | - | County and FWC |
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.
Pinellas Park FAQ
Is feeding ducks at a Pinellas Park pond illegal?
Bread and processed food can attract nuisance flocks and rodents. While not specifically banned, it can trigger nuisance enforcement under Section 14-30 if it causes sanitation issues.
Can I feed stray cats in my yard?
Yes, but food must be in proper containers, picked up within three hours, and managed so it does not attract raccoons or other wildlife. Otherwise it becomes a public nuisance.
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