The Surprise City Council approved an ordinance that prohibits the feeding of wild animals on city-owned property, including city parks, at Tuesday evening’s Regular Council Meeting. 

In part, the ordinance aims to protect public health, as congregating wildlife increases the chance of disease transmission to humans; clusters animal feces in a single location, and increases city maintenance/clean-up costs.

Protecting the safety of wildlife is another focus of the ordinance, “animals accustomed to being fed by people often lose their fear of people and become aggressive or a nuisance.”

Animals, as defined by this ordinance include any wild animal, bird, livestock, or domesticated animal that is feral or at large.

Signage is posted in city parks, notifying all visitors of the wildlife-feeding ban.  

Educating the public is the first step. Repeat violators will be subject to fines up to $2,500. 

The ordinance will go into effect 30 days following the council’s action.