Wildlife Feeding: Gilbert vs Tempe
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Gilbert and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert discourages feeding wildlife. The town's desert and agricultural areas attract javelina, coyotes, and other wildlife that should not be intentionally fed to prevent habituation.
View full Gilbert rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe addresses wildlife feeding through its nuisance and animal control provisions. The city's desert and urban lake environment (Tempe Town Lake) attracts various wildlife. Feeding wildlife can create nuisance conditions. The Arizona Game and Fish Department regulates wildlife interactions statewide. Property owners should secure trash and avoid feeding coyotes, javelina, and other desert wildlife.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Feeding | Discouraged | - |
| Common Wildlife | Javelina, coyotes, snakes | Coyotes, javelina, waterfowl near Tempe Town Lake |
| Agricultural Areas | More wildlife activity | - |
| Rattlesnake Calls | Fire and Rescue responds | - |
| Nuisance Standard | - | Conditions attracting nuisance wildlife subject to enforcement |
| State Authority | - | Arizona Game and Fish Department |
| Parks | - | Feeding wildlife may violate park rules |
| Trash Security | - | Must secure containers to prevent wildlife access |
| Feral Cats | - | TNR programs through local organizations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
Can I feed wildlife in Gilbert?
Gilbert discourages wildlife feeding. Javelina and coyotes in particular should not be fed as it creates safety hazards and habituates them to residential areas.
What do I do about a rattlesnake in my Gilbert yard?
Call Gilbert Fire and Rescue for rattlesnake removal. Do not attempt to handle the snake. Remove attractants like water sources and rodent habitat.
Tempe FAQ
Can I feed ducks at Tempe Town Lake?
Feeding waterfowl at Tempe Town Lake may violate park rules and contributes to water quality problems. The city discourages feeding wildlife in parks and public spaces.
What about coyotes in my Tempe neighborhood?
Do not feed coyotes. Secure trash, remove pet food from outdoors, and report aggressive behavior to Arizona Game and Fish at (602) 942-3000.
Is feeding birds in my yard regulated?
Bird feeding is generally permitted but should not create rodent problems or other nuisance conditions that affect neighbors.
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