Wildlife Feeding: Delray Beach vs West Palm Beach
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Delray Beach, FL and West Palm Beach, FL?
Delray Beach and West Palm Beach have similar restriction levels.
Delray Beach, FL
Palm Beach County
Feeding alligators, bears, foxes, raccoons, and sandhill cranes is illegal under FL §379.412 and FWC Rule 68A-4.001. Delray Beach's coastal proximity makes feeding sea birds and beach wildlife a particular concern. Sea turtle nesting protections apply March-October.
View full Delray Beach rules →West Palm Beach, FL
Palm Beach County
Feeding wildlife is illegal under FL §379.412 and PBC Code. Particularly enforced for alligators, raccoons, and sandhill cranes. Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Mangonia residents are common offenders.
View full West Palm Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Delray Beach | West Palm Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Alligators | Illegal to feed | - |
| State Law | FL §379.412 | FL §379.412 |
| Fine | Up to $500 | Up to $500 + 60 days |
| Sea Turtles | Protected Mar-Oct | - |
| Beach | No feeding | - |
| Alligator Feeding | - | 2nd-degree misdemeanor |
| Authority | - | FWC + PBC |
| Iguanas | - | No feeding (invasive) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Delray Beach FAQ
Can I put out a bird feeder in my Delray Beach backyard?
Yes, songbird seed feeders are allowed. Avoid bread or scraps that attract raccoons and sandhill cranes, which is illegal under FL §379.412.
I saw a sea turtle on the beach at night—can I shine a light or get close?
No. Disturbing a nesting sea turtle is a state and federal offense. Keep lights off, stay 50+ feet away, and report to FWC at 888-404-3922.
West Palm Beach FAQ
Who enforces this in West Palm Beach?
West Palm Beach code enforcement at (561) 822-1300 handles complaints.
Who enforces this in West Palm Beach?
West Palm Beach code enforcement at (561) 822-1300 handles complaints.
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