Wildlife Feeding: Garfield vs Paramus
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Paramus, NJ?
Garfield has fewer restrictions than Paramus.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Garfield bans feeding waterfowl, songbirds, pigeons, and backyard birds on public property and limits private feeding to small, nuisance-free amounts.
View full Garfield rules →Paramus, NJ
Bergen County
Paramus prohibits placing food intended or suitable for wild or stray animals on any public or private property, with escalating civil penalties for repeat violations.
View full Paramus rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Paramus |
|---|---|---|
| Public Property | Bird feeding prohibited | - |
| Feeder Capacity | Five pounds maximum | - |
| Nuisance Standard | No droppings buildup allowed | - |
| Covered Birds | Waterfowl, songbirds, pigeons | - |
| First offense | - | $125 civil penalty |
| Second offense | - | $250 civil penalty |
| Subsequent offenses | - | $350 each |
| Allowed exception | - | Enclosed elevated bird feeders |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garfield FAQ
Can I feed pigeons in a Garfield park?
No. The ordinance prohibits feeding waterfowl, songbirds, pigeons, and backyard birds in any public park or on any other property owned or operated by the City of Garfield.
Are bird feeders allowed in my Garfield backyard?
Yes, but only if the feeder holds five pounds or less of seed, does not unreasonably disturb neighbors, and does not cause droppings to accumulate on your property or adjacent ones.
Paramus FAQ
Can I feed feral cats in my Paramus yard?
No. Placing food intended for stray animals on any property in Paramus is prohibited and subject to a $125 civil penalty for the first offense.
Are bird feeders still allowed?
Yes, but only enclosed elevated bird feeders. Ground-level scattering of seed or feeding stations attractive to deer or other wildlife are not permitted.
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