Clearwater vs Tarpon Springs
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Tarpon Springs, FL?
Tarpon Springs 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 →Tarpon Springs, FL
Pinellas County
Tarpon Springs follows Florida law prohibiting the intentional feeding of alligators and certain wildlife, and city nuisance rules discourage feeding ducks or other animals when it creates sanitation, safety, or property concerns.
View full Tarpon Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Tarpon Springs |
|---|---|---|
| State law | FS 379.412 | - |
| First offense | $100 civil penalty | - |
| Repeat | Second degree misdemeanor | - |
| Bear/gator | Escalates to first degree | - |
| FWC rule | - | F.A.C. 68A-4.001 |
| Feeding alligators | - | Second-degree misdemeanor |
| Other species | - | Bears, cranes, raccoons, pelicans |
| City overlay | - | Chapter 4 nuisance rules |
| Hot spots | - | Anclote River, Lake Tarpon |
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.
Tarpon Springs FAQ
Can I feed ducks at Tarpon Springs parks?
Feeding waterfowl is discouraged because it can attract alligators and create sanitation issues; some parks post no-feeding signs that the city enforces under nuisance rules.
What's the penalty for feeding an alligator?
Under FWC rules it is a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, regardless of intent or whether harm occurred.
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