Is It Against The Law To Feed Deer In Sioux Falls?

Do you have neighbors who are feeding deer in Sioux Falls? Are they breaking the law?

Yes...It is against the law to feed deer in Sioux Falls.

City ordinances prohibit placing any "unnatural food source" on your property or any other property with the intent to attract deer.

Violating this law can result in citations and fines.

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While it may seem harmless to leave corn or other food for these beautiful animals, the practice creates serious problems for both the deer population and the community.

Why Is Feeding Deer Illegal?

Disease Transmission: When deer congregate around artificial feeding sites, they come into close contact with one another, dramatically increasing the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and other infectious illnesses. CWD is a fatal neurological disease.

Property Damage: Deer that become accustomed to human-provided food often lose their natural wariness and cause extensive damage to landscaping, gardens, and property. These habituated animals may also become aggressive during feeding times.

Public Safety Concerns: Fed deer are more likely to linger near roadways and residential areas, increasing the risk of vehicle collisions and dangerous encounters with people and pets. South Dakota already sees thousands of deer-vehicle accidents annually.

Harm to Deer Health: Human food lacks the proper nutrition deer need and disrupts their natural foraging behavior. Deer that become dependent on artificial food sources may struggle to survive when those sources disappear, especially during harsh winter conditions.