Wyoming Statewide Rule
Wyoming Wildlife Feeding Restrictions Statewide
Key Facts
- Authority
- Game and Fish Commission
- Statute
- Wyoming Title 23
- Wildlife status
- Property of state
- CWD concern
- Feeding restrictions
- Local override
- Preempted
Summary
Wyoming Game and Fish Commission holds exclusive jurisdiction over wildlife. State law and Commission regulations restrict feeding big game animals such as deer, elk, and moose, particularly where it creates conflicts or disease risk.
23-3-309. Intentional feeding of elk; penalty. (a) No person shall intentionally attract or feed any elk by depositing, placing, distributing or scattering feed that results in commingling with livestock. (b) Nothing in this section shall prohibit: (i) Any normal or accepted agricultural management practice;
Full Breakdown
Under Title 23 of the Wyoming Statutes, the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission has authority to manage all wildlife in the state. Chapter 10 regulations and Commission orders prohibit baiting big game during hunting and allow the Department to require cessation of feeding when it concentrates animals, attracts predators, spreads disease such as chronic wasting disease, or creates public safety hazards. Wildlife is property of the state, and unauthorized take, harassment, or interference is unlawful. Local governments cannot authorize activities preempted by state wildlife law, though they may add nuisance regulations consistent with state authority.
Violations & Penalties
Violations of wildlife feeding orders or take statutes are misdemeanors under Title 23, with fines, restitution, and possible loss of hunting privileges through the Wildlife Violator Compact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed deer in my backyard in Wyoming?
Who regulates wildlife in Wyoming?
Is baiting allowed for hunting?
Sources
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