Louisiana Statewide Rule

Louisiana Wildlife Feeding Restrictions Statewide Authority

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Louisiana (2026)

Key Facts

Lead agency: LDWF
Alligator feeding: Banned statewide
Statute: La. R.S. 56:6, 56:115
Penalty: Up to $950 fine

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Louisiana State Legislature

Summary

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries holds exclusive authority over wildlife management. State regulations prohibit feeding alligators and restrict baiting of deer and other game animals. These rules apply uniformly statewide regardless of municipal ordinances.

Feeding of wild bears prohibited No person shall intentionally feed or attempt to feed a wild bear. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to baiting of bears by properly licensed hunters in possession of a bear harvest permit and shall not prohibit legal baiting of deer. The first violation of this Section by any person shall result in the issuance of a warning ticket only. Any subsequent violation by the same person shall be a class two violation. The Wildlife and Fisheries Commission is authorized to promulgate, under the Administrative Procedure Act, rules and regulations for the administration and enforcement of this Section.

Source: Louisiana State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under La. R.S. 56:6 and 56:115, LDWF regulates interactions with wildlife. Feeding alligators is prohibited statewide and carries criminal penalties because it conditions them to associate humans with food. Deer baiting rules vary by hunting season and zone but are set by the LDWF Commission, not local governments. Feeding bears intentionally is prohibited. While cities may add restrictions on feeding nuisance wildlife like raccoons or feral hogs in residential areas, the core wildlife feeding framework is uniform. Migratory bird feeding follows federal guidelines.

Violations & Penalties

Alligator feeding: fines up to $950 and 90 days jail. Illegal baiting: fines $400-$950 plus license suspension and equipment forfeiture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to feed alligators in Louisiana?

Yes. Feeding wild alligators is prohibited statewide because it makes them lose fear of humans and creates dangerous situations. Violations carry criminal misdemeanor penalties.

Can cities ban feeding of all wildlife?

Cities may regulate nuisance feeding in residential areas, but cannot override LDWF rules on game species. Migratory bird feeding follows federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act standards.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.