Dunedin vs St. Petersburg
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Dunedin, FL and St. Petersburg, FL?
Dunedin and St. Petersburg 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 →St. Petersburg, FL
Pinellas County
Feeding wildlife that creates a public nuisance is prohibited in St. Petersburg, and Florida FAC 68A-4.001 bans feeding pelicans, sandhill cranes, bears, raccoons, foxes, and coyotes statewide.
View full St. Petersburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dunedin | St. Petersburg |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State rule | - | FAC 68A-4.001 |
| First fine | - | $100 |
| Banned species feeding | - | Pelicans, cranes, bears |
| Local backstop | - | Chapter 4 nuisance |
| Enforcement | - | FWC and city |
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.
St. Petersburg FAQ
Can I feed ducks at a St. Petersburg pond?
Casual duck feeding is not specifically banned, but if it attracts rats, raccoons, or creates a nuisance, you can be cited under city Chapter 4 nuisance rules. Feeding pelicans is barred by FAC 68A-4.001.
Is it illegal to feed raccoons in St. Petersburg?
Yes. Florida Administrative Code 68A-4.001 prohibits placing food in a manner that attracts raccoons, foxes, coyotes, or bears, with civil penalties starting at $100 per offense.
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