Wildlife Feeding: Newton vs Somerville
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Newton, MA and Somerville, MA?
Newton and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton prohibits feeding of wildlife that creates nuisance conditions, attracts coyotes or rodents, and restricts intentional feeding of deer and waterfowl.
View full Newton rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville prohibits feeding of wildlife that creates nuisance or public health risks, and MassWildlife restricts feeding of deer, bears, and turkeys statewide.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newton | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Intentional feeding | Prohibited for deer, coyotes | - |
| Bears | Banned by state MGL c.131 s.5C | - |
| Bird feeders | Allowed if no nuisance | Allowed if no rodent issue |
| Trash | Must be secured | - |
| Waterfowl | Feeding discouraged statewide | - |
| Nuisance authority | - | Board of Health |
| State rules | - | 321 CMR 2.02 (deer/bears) |
| Pigeon feeding | - | Prohibited when a nuisance |
| Base fine | - | 100 dollars plus abatement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newton FAQ
Can I feed ducks at Crystal Lake?
Waterfowl feeding is strongly discouraged and signage prohibits it; feeding alters waterfowl behavior and water quality.
Is feeding coyotes illegal?
Yes, feeding coyotes violates nuisance ordinance and creates public safety risks across Newton.
Somerville FAQ
Can I keep bird feeders?
Yes, but if they attract rats or cause property damage, the Board of Health can order removal under Somerville's rodent control rules.
Are coyotes a concern?
Coyotes are present in greater Boston; MassWildlife advises against any intentional feeding to keep them wary of humans.
Compare other topics
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