Yes, feeding wild pigeons in Arkansas is generally permitted under state law, but local ordinances and public health codes impose significant restrictions. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Animal Industry Division monitors nuisance wildlife interactions, while municipal codes—particularly in Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Bentonville—often prohibit feeding pigeons to mitigate sanitation and property damage risks. Violations may result in fines under municipal public nuisance statutes, with enforcement escalating in 2026 due to updated Arkansas Wildlife Code amendments targeting urban wildlife conflicts.
Key Regulations for Feeding Wild Pigeons in Arkansas
- Public Health Ordinances: Municipalities like Little Rock (LRMC § 6.12) ban feeding pigeons in public spaces to reduce disease vectors, including histoplasmosis risks from accumulated droppings. Violations incur fines up to $250 per incident.
- Nuisance Wildlife Prohibitions: The Arkansas Wildlife Code (AWC § 15-21-302) classifies excessive pigeon populations as nuisance wildlife. Feeding that attracts over 25 birds within a 50-foot radius triggers enforcement by local animal control or the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
- Private Property Restrictions: Landowners may feed pigeons on private property only if the feed is contained in elevated, covered containers to prevent spillover onto neighboring properties. Uncovered feeding is prohibited under Arkansas’ Litter Control Act (Act 496 of 1973).