Is It Illegal to Feed Deer in Your Yard in New York?

TL;DR:Yes, it is illegal to feed deer in your yard in New York. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has implemented regulations that prohibit the feeding of deer and other wildlife to prevent the spread of diseases, overpopulation, and conflicts with humans. Violation of these regulations can result in fines and other penalties.¹

Overview of Feeding Deer Regulations in New York

Feeding deer in New York is regulated to protect both the animals and the ecosystem. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has established specific rules to address this issue.

Why Feeding Deer is Prohibited

Feeding deer is prohibited for several reasons:

  1. Disease Prevention: Feeding deer can increase the risk of spreading diseases like Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and other transmissible diseases among deer populations.
  2. Overpopulation: Providing food can lead to unnaturally high populations, resulting in overgrazing and habitat destruction.
  3. Human-Wildlife Conflict: Feeding deer can cause them to become habituated to humans, leading to property damage and potential dangers on roads.
  4. Nutritional Issues: Human-provided food is often not nutritionally suitable for deer, leading to health problems.

Specific Regulations

The DEC has outlined the following specific regulations regarding feeding deer:

  • Direct Feeding: It is illegal to directly feed deer by placing food out specifically for them.
  • Indirect Feeding: Regulations also address indirect feeding, where food meant for other animals is accessible to deer.

Penalties for Violation

Violating the feeding regulations can result in fines and penalties. The DEC actively enforces these rules to ensure compliance and protect the state’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Exceptions

There are limited exceptions to the feeding prohibition, primarily for scientific research and management activities conducted by authorized personnel.

Key Takeaways

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Illegal to Feed Deer: Feeding deer in New York is prohibited by the DEC to prevent disease, overpopulation, and human-wildlife conflicts.
  • Penalties: Violations can result in fines and other penalties.
  • Exceptions: Limited exceptions exist for authorized scientific and management activities.
  • Reasons for Prohibition: The ban aims to protect deer health, reduce conflicts, and maintain ecological balance.

    • References

    ¹ New York State Environmental Conservation Law 11-0505