No. Feeding wild pigeons in Washington is prohibited under state wildlife laws due to ecological and public health risks. Local ordinances, including Seattle’s 2023 wildlife feeding ban, further restrict such activities, with violations punishable by fines up to $500 under the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regulations.
Key Regulations for Feeding Wild Pigeons in Washington
- State Prohibition: WDFW enforces RCW 77.15.190, which bans intentional feeding of wild animals to prevent dependency and disease transmission. Pigeons are classified as nuisance species under this statute.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Seattle and Spokane impose stricter rules via municipal codes (e.g., Seattle Municipal Code 18.12.080), explicitly prohibiting pigeon feeding to mitigate property damage and sanitation issues.
- Enforcement and Penalties: Violations may result in citations from WDFW officers or local animal control, with fines escalating for repeat offenses. Exceptions exist only for licensed wildlife rehabilitators under WAC 220-450-050.
Public health concerns, including histoplasmosis and salmonella risks, underpin these restrictions. The WDFW’s 2026 wildlife management plan emphasizes reducing human-wildlife conflicts through stricter feeding controls. Always verify county-specific rules before feeding any wildlife.