Wildlife Feeding: Olathe vs Overland Park
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Olathe, KS and Overland Park, KS?
Olathe and Overland Park have similar restriction levels.
Olathe, KS
Johnson County
Olathe restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisance conditions.
View full Olathe rules →Overland Park, KS
Johnson County
Kansas Administrative Regulation 115-8-23, adopted by the Wildlife and Parks Commission, prohibits baiting and feeding of wildlife on all public lands statewide. The 2023 amendment extended the prohibition from hunting activities to all activities involving wildlife attractants on public property.
View full Overland Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Olathe | Overland Park |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Deer, coyotes, bears | - |
| Bird Feeders | May be restricted | - |
| Pet Food | Must not be left outside | - |
| Fines | $50 to $500 | - |
| Regulation | - | K.A.R. 115-8-23 |
| Applies to | - | All Kansas public lands |
| Activities covered | - | All wildlife attractant uses |
| Private land | - | Baiting still permitted |
| Enforcement | - | KDWP conservation officers |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Olathe FAQ
Can I feed birds in my yard?
Generally yes, but Olathe may restrict bird feeders in areas with bear or other wildlife activity. Check local rules.
Is it illegal to feed stray cats?
Feral cat colony management rules vary in Olathe. Casual feeding may violate wildlife feeding ordinances.
Overland Park FAQ
Can I feed deer on my own private land in Kansas?
Yes. K.A.R. 115-8-23 applies only to public lands. Baiting and feeding deer on private property remains legal statewide, though local ordinances may limit feeding within city limits.
Does the rule apply to bird feeders on public land?
The regulation targets wildlife attractants generally. Casual songbird feeders at posted public picnic areas are typically not enforced, but bait piles or large feeders intended to concentrate game are prohibited.
Why did Kansas expand the baiting ban in 2023?
The Wildlife and Parks Commission cited chronic wasting disease (CWD) concerns. Concentrating deer at bait sites increases pathogen transmission through saliva, urine, and feces deposited at high densities.
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