Dunedin vs Pinellas Park
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Dunedin, FL and Pinellas Park, FL?
Dunedin and Pinellas Park have similar restriction levels.
Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin defers to Florida law on wildlife feeding. FWC rules and Florida Statute 379.412 prohibit feeding bears, alligators, sandhill cranes, pelicans, and several other species, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses involving bears or alligators.
View full Dunedin 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 | Dunedin | Pinellas Park |
|---|---|---|
| Governing statute | Fla. Stat. 379.412 | - |
| First-offense fine | $100 civil | - |
| Felony threshold | 4th bear/alligator offense | - |
| Bird feeders | Generally allowed | - |
| Enforcement agency | FWC and local code | - |
| 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 |
| First offense | - | Typically warning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dunedin FAQ
Can I feed ducks or seagulls at the marina?
Feeding pelicans is specifically prohibited and feeding gulls is discouraged because it conditions wildlife and creates nuisances. Local code can cite feeding that creates a sanitation problem.
What about backyard bird feeders?
Songbird, hummingbird, and squirrel feeders are allowed if kept clean and not attracting prohibited species like bears or raccoons. Bear-attracting feeders may be ordered removed.
Is feeding alligators ever legal?
No. Feeding any wild alligator is illegal under Florida law because it removes the animal's natural fear of humans, with penalties escalating from a fine to a felony for repeat offenses.
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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