Wildlife Feeding: Fairfax vs Vienna
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Fairfax, VA and Vienna, VA?
Fairfax and Vienna have similar restriction levels.
Fairfax, VA
Fairfax County
Wildlife in the City of Fairfax is managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources under state law. Feeding deer is prohibited under 4VAC15-40-285, and trapping or relocating nuisance wildlife generally requires a state permit or a licensed commercial wildlife control operator.
View full Fairfax rules →Vienna, VA
Fairfax County
Vienna prohibits the feeding of wildlife including deer, raccoons, foxes, and coyotes, with fines up to 250 dollars. Deer management is handled through Fairfax County programs. Residents encountering injured or nuisance wildlife should contact Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or Fairfax County Animal Protection Police.
View full Vienna rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fairfax | Vienna |
|---|---|---|
| Deer feeding | Prohibited Sep 1 to early Jan | - |
| Discharge of firearms | Prohibited in city | - |
| Wildlife trapping | State permit required | - |
| Authority | Virginia DWR | - |
| Bat exposure | Report immediately | - |
| Fact | - | Wildlife feeding prohibited; fines 100-250 dollars |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fairfax FAQ
Can I trap a raccoon in my attic myself?
Usually no without a state permit. Most homeowners hire a licensed wildlife control operator.
Is deer feeding ever allowed?
It is banned during most of the year citywide due to chronic wasting disease precaution areas.
Can I shoot a groundhog?
No. Firearm discharge is prohibited in the city regardless of species.
Vienna FAQ
Can I feed the deer in my yard?
No. Intentional feeding of deer is prohibited and can result in fines. Feeding also concentrates deer, increasing vehicle collisions and Lyme disease risk.
A fox bit my dog, what do I do?
Contact Fairfax County Animal Protection Police at 703-691-2131 immediately. The fox must be captured for rabies testing, and your dog will need rabies boosters.
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