Ohio Statewide Restrictions on Feeding Wildlife

Ohio Administrative Code 1501:31-15-03 prohibits placing food, salt, or minerals to attract deer in counties with chronic wasting disease detection or surveillance zones. ORC 1531.04 grants the Division of Wildlife authority to regulate wildlife feeding statewide. Feeding waterfowl on state-controlled waters and lands is restricted under OAC 1501:31. Black bear feeding is prohibited because bears are state-listed and protected under ORC 1531.02. Ohio law does not generally prohibit songbird feeding, but feeding that creates a public health nuisance can violate ORC 3767.13 (public nuisance). Cities may impose stricter feeding bans for pigeons, geese, and feral cats.

Wildlife feeding violations under OAC 1501:31 are typically minor misdemeanors with fines up to $150, plus restitution. Repeat or commercial violations can escalate to fourth-degree misdemeanors.