Virginia Statewide Rule

Virginia Wildlife Feeding and Baiting Restrictions

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Virginia (2026)

Virginia prohibits baiting wildlife for hunting and lets localities ban deer feeding, while bear feeding bans are addressed through hunting and Department regulations.

Key Facts

Baiting statute: Va. Code 29.1-521
Deer feeding: Va. Code 29.1-527.2
Civil fine cap: $50
Enforcer: VA Dept. of Wildlife Resources

Source: Virginia Legislative Information System

Full Breakdown

Va. Code Section 29.1-521 makes it unlawful to bait blinds or put out salt or food for taking wildlife. Section 29.1-527.2 authorizes any city or town to prohibit deer feeding by ordinance, with civil fines up to $50 (residential and agricultural plantings excluded). The Department of Wildlife Resources also enforces statewide bear-baiting prohibitions during seasons. Localities cannot legalize what state law forbids; they can only add stricter feeding bans for deer.

Violations & Penalties

Wildlife baiting is a Class 3 misdemeanor; deer-feeding ordinance violations carry up to $50 civil fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed deer in my Virginia backyard?

Only if your city or town has not adopted a feeding ban. Many localities have invoked Section 29.1-527.2 to prohibit deer feeding. Residential and agricultural plantings are exempt.

Is bear baiting legal in Virginia?

Hunting bears over bait is restricted under state hunting regulations. General feeding of bears is discouraged and may be prohibited by Department regulation due to public safety concerns.

Sources

See something wrong?

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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed deer in my Virginia backyard?

Only if your city or town has not adopted a feeding ban. Many localities have invoked Section 29.1-527.2 to prohibit deer feeding. Residential and agricultural plantings are exempt.

Is bear baiting legal in Virginia?

Hunting bears over bait is restricted under state hunting regulations. General feeding of bears is discouraged and may be prohibited by Department regulation due to public safety concerns.