New York vs Philadelphia
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between New York, NY and Philadelphia, PA?
New York and Philadelphia have similar restriction levels.
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 →Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia County
Pennsylvania state law (58 Pa. Code §137.33) prohibits intentionally feeding bear or elk. Philadelphia's parks regulations restrict feeding wildlife in city parks. The Health Code (Title 6) addresses conditions that attract rodents and other pests, which can result from wildlife feeding.
View full Philadelphia rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New York | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State Law | - | 58 Pa. Code §137.33 prohibits feeding bear/elk |
| Parks | - | Wildlife feeding restricted in city parks |
| Health Code | - | Title 6 addresses pest-attracting conditions |
| Property Code | - | PM-302.5 requires rodent-free premises |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Philadelphia FAQ
Is it illegal to feed wildlife in Philadelphia?
State law prohibits feeding bear or elk. Philadelphia parks regulations restrict wildlife feeding. The Property Maintenance Code (PM-302.5) requires premises to be free from rodent harborage, which can be triggered by feeding wildlife.
Can I feed birds in my Philadelphia yard?
Casual bird feeding is generally permitted on private property. However, if feeders attract rodents or create unsanitary conditions, the city can cite violations under the Health Code or Property Maintenance Code PM-302.5.
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