Wildlife Feeding: Miami vs New York
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Miami, FL and New York, NY?
Miami and New York have similar restriction levels.
Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami restricts the feeding of wildlife including iguanas, raccoons, feral cats, and waterfowl to prevent congregation, property damage, and public health risks. Florida law additionally prohibits feeding certain protected species like manatees and alligators.
View full Miami rules →New York, NY
New York County
NYC Health Code §161.09(d) prohibits feeding pigeons, and NYC Parks Rules §1-04(q) prohibit feeding wildlife in parks (except squirrels and birds at designated areas). Admin Code §17-195 specifically bans pigeon feeding citywide with fines up to $1,000.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Alligator Feeding | Criminal offense, F.S. 372.667 | - |
| Feral Cat Policy | Trap-Neuter-Return program | - |
| Iguanas | Feeding strongly discouraged | - |
| Parks | Wildlife feeding generally prohibited | - |
| Pigeon Feeding | - | Banned citywide (§17-195) |
| Parks Wildlife | - | Feeding prohibited (§1-04(q)) |
| Pigeon Fine | - | Up to $1,000 |
| Parks Fine | - | $50 |
| Feral Cats | - | Managed TNR colonies permitted |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami FAQ
Is it illegal to feed alligators in Miami?
Yes. Feeding alligators is a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida Statute 372.667, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. This applies anywhere in the state.
Can I feed feral cats in my Miami neighborhood?
Miami-Dade supports Trap-Neuter-Return for feral cats, but leaving food that attracts rodents or creates unsanitary conditions can result in code enforcement violations for sanitation issues.
What should I do about iguanas on my Miami property?
Do not feed iguanas. FWC encourages humane removal of invasive green iguanas from private property. Contact a licensed wildlife removal service or FWC for guidance.
New York FAQ
Is it illegal to feed pigeons in NYC?
Yes. Admin Code §17-195 (Local Law 46 of 2007) prohibits feeding pigeons on any public or private property in NYC. Fines can reach $1,000. This applies citywide, not just in parks.
Can I feed birds in NYC parks?
Generally no. Parks Rules §1-04(q) prohibit feeding wildlife in parks. Some parks have designated bird feeding areas for songbirds, but feeding pigeons, geese, or other wildlife is prohibited.
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