Wildlife Feeding: Columbus vs Westerville

Columbus does not have a blanket ban on feeding songbirds or backyard birds, but intentionally feeding deer, raccoons, feral cats in large colonies, and other nuisance wildlife can trigger a nuisance citation under the city's health and zoning chapters. The Ohio Division of Wildlife regulates feeding statewide.

Feeding deer and waterfowl is discouraged in Westerville and prohibited in city parks under Parks Department rules. Deer feeding on private property can be cited as a nuisance under CO 521 if it attracts animals creating public safety concerns along Alum Creek corridor.