Connecticut Bear and Wildlife Feeding Prohibition Statute

Public Act 23-140 amended Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 26-107g to prohibit feeding black bears anywhere in Connecticut, whether intentional or by negligently leaving food, garbage, or birdseed accessible after warnings. DEEP issues written warnings before fines for unintentional feeding through bird feeders or unsecured trash. Section 26-86c also prohibits baiting deer in many circumstances. The state authority is exclusive for wildlife management, though municipalities may impose additional trash storage rules consistent with state law. Hunting feeding rules are separately regulated under Title 26.

Intentional bear feeding carries fines up to $1,000 per offense. Continued violations after warning escalate penalties and may include misdemeanor charges with possible jail time.