Wildlife Feeding: Portland vs Seattle
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Portland, OR and Seattle, WA?
Portland has fewer restrictions than Seattle.
Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Oregon law at ORS 496.730 prohibits feeding any 'predatory animal' (coyote, cougar, bear) by intentional placement of food that attracts the animal — a Class A misdemeanor. Portland has no broad citywide ban on backyard bird feeding, but PCC 29.20.030 (Property Maintenance) reaches accumulations of food or garbage that attract rats, raccoons, or other vector wildlife. Securing trash under PCC 17.102 is required, and feeding feral cats in a way that creates a nuisance can be cited under PCC Title 29.
View full Portland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Feeding wildlife (deer, raccoons, coyotes, bears) in unincorporated King County is prohibited under WAC 232-12-271 and KCC 11.04. Bird feeders are allowed but must not become bear attractants.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Predator-Feeding Ban | ORS 496.730 (coyote, cougar, bear) | - |
| Max Fine (State) | $6,250 (ORS 496.992) | - |
| Property Maintenance | PCC 29.20.030 — no pest harborage | - |
| Garbage Rule | PCC 17.102 — closed carts required | - |
| Songbird Feeders | Allowed if no rat/raccoon attraction | - |
| Bear Season | - | April-November |
| Deer Feeding | - | Prohibited statewide |
| Bird Feeders | - | Manage to avoid bears |
| Violation | - | WAC 232-12-271 |
| Enforcement | - | WDFW + King County |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Portland FAQ
Can I feed birds in my Portland backyard?
Yes. Casual bird-feeding is not regulated. But if your feeder spills seed that attracts rats, raccoons, or coyotes, PCC 29.20.030 lets BDS order the feeder modified or removed as a property-maintenance nuisance.
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Portland?
Yes — and it's a state crime, not just a city rule. ORS 496.730 prohibits intentionally placing food or attractants that draw coyotes, cougars, or bears. Conviction is a Class A misdemeanor with fines up to $6,250 under ORS 496.992.
Seattle FAQ
Can I feed squirrels and songbirds in my yard?
Generally yes for songbirds, but take down feeders April-November if bears are active in your area. Do not feed squirrels intentionally as they become a rat and raccoon attractant.
What should I do if a bear visits my yard?
Secure all attractants: garbage in bear-resistant container, feeders inside, pick up fallen fruit. Report bears to WDFW at 877-933-9847. Do not leave food to keep bear away.
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