Wildlife Feeding: Cornelius vs Matthews
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Cornelius, NC and Matthews, NC?
Cornelius and Matthews have similar restriction levels.
Cornelius, NC
Mecklenburg County
Intentional feeding of wildlife (deer, geese, raccoons, bears) is discouraged and may violate nuisance rules if it attracts pests or creates public health issues. Lake Norman Canada goose populations are managed by NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
View full Cornelius rules →Matthews, NC
Mecklenburg County
Matthews discourages feeding of wildlife through nuisance and rabies-prevention provisions, with specific prohibitions on feeding deer in the countywide ordinance and on feeding that attracts rats or bears.
View full Matthews rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cornelius | Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| Deer Feeding | Discouraged, CWD risk | Discouraged |
| Bird Feeders | Generally allowed | Allowed with care |
| Geese | NCWRC managed at Lake Norman | - |
| Bears | Secure trash, remove feeders seasonally | - |
| Enforcement | Cornelius Code + NCWRC | CMACC |
| Nuisance | - | Prohibited |
| Fine | - | $50 to $500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cornelius FAQ
Can I feed squirrels and birds in my yard?
Yes. Passive bird and squirrel feeders are permitted. Keep feeders at least 10 feet from property lines and clean up spilled seed to avoid rodent nuisance complaints.
What should I do about nuisance geese?
Contact NC Wildlife Resources Commission (919-707-0010). Cornelius Parks does not dispatch wildlife removal but coordinates with NCWRC for lakefront park management.
Matthews FAQ
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
Compare other topics
See how Cornelius and Matthews compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool