Public Hearing on Proposed Ordinance Prohibiting Feeding of Wildlife
Published on September 23, 2025
The Los Alamos County Council will hold a public hearing at its next regular meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 30, to consider
proposed ordinance 02-373 that would amend Chapter 6 of the Los Alamos County Code. If adopted, the ordinance would explicitly prohibit the feeding of wild animals on both public and private property within the County’s incorporated boundaries. The Council meeting begins at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers at 1000 Central Avenue, Los Alamos.
Feeding wild animals, while often well-intentioned, can lead to significant public health and safety concerns, and encourages wildlife to gather in residential and public areas, which can:
- Increase the risk of property damage;
- Elevate the potential to spread diseases among wildlife, pets, and humans;
- Attract animals into populated areas, raising the likelihood of vehicle-animal collisions; and
- Alter natural behavior, disrupt migration patterns, and reduce animals’ instinctual fear of humans and predators.
“The intent of this ordinance is to safeguard both the community and our local wildlife,” said Police Chief Dino Sgambellone. “By prohibiting the intentional feeding of wild animals, we hope to protect residents and preserve healthy wildlife behaviors.”
The proposed ordinance includes a narrow exception for residents feeding songbirds and pollinators.
The public is encouraged to attend and provide comment during the public hearing on September 30. Additionally, public comment can be made online using the eComment tool once the Council agenda is published on the
County's Legistar page. Agendas are posted at least 72 hours before each meeting. Individuals can use the filters to find the meetings and agendas of interest.
For questions or further information, visit the
County Council web page or call the County Manager's office at 505-663-1750.