Can I feed deer in my backyard during winter in Maine?

Winter feeding between season close and December 15 is prohibited if all deer seasons close before that date, but limited winter feeding outside restricted windows is generally allowed.

Does Maine restrict feeding other wildlife like bears or moose?

Bear baiting is heavily regulated under separate hunting statutes, and feeding wildlife in ways that create nuisance or safety problems may be restricted by IFW rule.

Are bird feeders affected by these rules?

Bird feeders are generally lawful, but if they incidentally attract and entice deer during closed seasons, Maine wardens may require their removal.

Maine Wildlife Feeding Law: Statewide Animal Ordinances Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Feeding Statute: 12 MRS Section 10659
Baiting Statute: 12 MRS Section 11452
Closed Window: June 1 to season opener
Fine Range: $500 to $1,000
CWD Authority: Commissioner may regulate

Source: 12 MRSA §10659 - Feeding or baiting of deer

Full Breakdown

Under 12 MRS Section 10659, no person may place salt or any other bait or food in a place to entice deer from June 1 until the opening of the open deer hunting season, and from the close of deer season through December 15 if hunting closes earlier. Title 12 Section 11452 separately prohibits hunting deer over bait. The Commissioner of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife may regulate or prohibit wildlife feeding to minimize chronic wasting disease risk and traffic hazards. The statewide framework applies in every municipality and overrides any local rule that conflicts with state restrictions.

Violations & Penalties

Civil violation with fines from $500 to $1,000 per offense. Repeat violations and hunting-over-bait charges carry license revocation and additional penalties.

Maine Bans Deer Feeding and Baiting During Closed Seasons

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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