Wildlife Feeding: Marana vs Tucson
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Marana, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Marana has fewer restrictions than Tucson.
Marana, AZ
Pima County
Marana discourages wildlife feeding through Town Code nuisance provisions and ARS 17-255.06, which makes it unlawful to intentionally feed wildlife in a manner that creates a public nuisance. Javelina, coyotes, and bobcats are common in the Sonoran Desert foothills around Dove Mountain.
View full Marana rules →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Pima County Code and Arizona Game and Fish regulations prohibit intentionally feeding wildlife such as coyotes, javelina, bobcats, deer, bears, and skunks. Feeding most native Sonoran Desert wildlife is a civil violation with fines up to 300 dollars per incident, while feeding bears and big cats can trigger state criminal charges.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Marana | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | ARS 17-255.06 prohibits intentional feeding | AZ Game and Fish regulations |
| Local Code | Chapter 6-1 nuisance provisions | - |
| Common Wildlife | Javelina, coyote, bobcat, rattlesnake | - |
| Penalty | Class 1 misdemeanor under state law | - |
| Prohibited Feeding | - | Coyotes, javelina, bobcats, deer, bears |
| Bird Feeding | - | Allowed with containment |
| Fine Range | - | 100 to 300 dollars |
| Report | - | AZ Game and Fish 623-236-7201 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Marana FAQ
Can I feed javelina or coyotes in Marana?
No. ARS 17-255.06 makes it unlawful to intentionally feed wildlife in a way that creates a nuisance. Arizona Game and Fish can issue citations with penalties up to $2,500.
What if wildlife comes onto my property for pet food?
While accidental attraction is not a direct violation, Marana Code Enforcement and Arizona Game and Fish recommend securing pet food and garbage. Persistent wildlife attraction due to negligence can be cited as a nuisance under Town Code Chapter 6-1.
Tucson FAQ
Is it illegal to feed javelina in Tucson?
Yes. Pima County and Arizona Game and Fish rules prohibit intentionally feeding javelina, coyotes, and other native wildlife. Fines range from 100 to 300 dollars per incident and habituated animals may be relocated or euthanized.
Can I still put out a bird feeder in Tucson?
Yes if you manage spillage. Keep seed off the ground and use baffled feeders that exclude larger mammals. Remove feeders temporarily if they attract coyotes or javelina to your yard.
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