Putting out food for wildlife in Florida can bring legal consequences, including a $100 civil penalty for a first violation and escalating criminal charges for repeat offenses.
Florida law prohibits intentionally feeding wildlife such as raccoons, foxes, coyotes, wild monkeys, manatees, alligators, crocodiles and bears. The restrictions also cover protected, endangered or aggressive birds, including scrub jays, pelicans, bald eagles and sandhill cranes.
The issue drew attention in Jacksonville this month after Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers arrested a 77-year-old man who was accused of feeding raccoons near his warehouse. He said he and his wife had been feeding stray cats there, but officers reported finding about 10 to 15 raccoons waiting by the back door. Booking information cited three prior violations involving the same issue.
For most prohibited freshwater fish and wildlife feeding violations, the first offense is a noncriminal infraction with a $100 civil penalty. A second or later offense can be charged as a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to $500 in fines and up to 60 days in jail.
Penalties rise further for feeding bears, alligators and crocodiles. A third offense can be a first-degree misdemeanor, with up to a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail. A fourth offense can result in a felony charge carrying a fine of up to $5,000 and up to five years behind bars.
There is no statewide Florida law barring people from feeding stray cats, but the FWC discourages the practice because food left outside can attract wildlife. The agency also recommends bringing pet food indoors at night and securing trash cans. Its policy on feral cats is intended to protect native wildlife and does not outlaw Trap-Neuter-Release programs.
Birds and squirrels are generally not covered by the statewide feeding ban, though local governments and homeowners associations may have their own rules. The FWC warns that feeding wildlife can alter animals’ diets and behavior, concentrate animals in small areas and attract predators or create conflicts around homes and businesses.
