Vermont Statewide Rule

Vermont Wildlife Feeding Restrictions and Bear Rules

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Vermont (2026)

Vermont prohibits intentional feeding of bears statewide and restricts deer feeding under Fish & Wildlife rules. State law preempts conflicting local ordinances and authorizes wardens to enforce bear-attractant removal orders to prevent human-wildlife conflicts.

Key Facts

Statute: 10 V.S.A. § 4709
Bear feeding: Prohibited statewide
Bird feeders: Remove April-November typical
Enforcement: VT Fish & Wildlife wardens

Source: Vermont General Assembly

Full Breakdown

Under 10 V.S.A. § 4709 and Fish & Wildlife Board rules, intentionally feeding black bears is prohibited statewide. Wardens may issue written notices requiring removal of bear attractants such as bird feeders, garbage, and pet food when bears are active in the area; failure to comply is a violation. Deer baiting and feeding is restricted to prevent chronic wasting disease spread. Hunting-related baiting follows separate seasonal regulations. Incidental feeding through bird feeders becomes illegal once a warden notice is issued.

Violations & Penalties

Bear feeding violations: fines up to $1,000 and license suspension. Failure to remove attractants after warden notice subject to additional penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed birds in Vermont?

Yes, but if a warden issues notice that your feeder is attracting bears, you must remove it. Best practice is to take down feeders from April through late November.

Is feeding deer legal?

Recreational deer feeding is restricted under Fish & Wildlife rules to prevent disease transmission. Hunting-related baiting follows separate seasonal regulations specific to certain wildlife management units.

Sources

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