Ludington council to consider limits on feeding wildlife

Submitted photo: Deer in the city limits of Ludington.

LUDINGTON — The Ludington City Council will consider new restrictions on feeding wild animals during its regular meeting Monday, April 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the city municipal building, 400 S. Harrison St.

Council members are scheduled to take up the first reading of Ordinance No. 589-26, which would amend city code to address the feeding of deer and other wildlife within city limits.

The proposed ordinance is aimed at reducing nuisance conditions and public safety concerns tied to intentional or incidental feeding of wildlife in residential areas. City officials say such practices have contributed to increased presence of animals including deer, raccoons, skunks and rodents, along with property damage and sanitation issues.

Under the proposal, residents would be prohibited from feeding wild animals unless using an elevated feeder that meets specific height requirements. The ordinance also restricts scattering food or leaving out materials that could attract wildlife, including bird seed placed directly on the ground or other accessible surfaces.

The measure includes a range of exceptions, such as feeding domestic pets, naturally occurring vegetation in gardens, composting practices and authorized wildlife or deer management programs approved by the city.

City staff indicated the amendment is intended to strike a balance between allowing residents to enjoy birdwatching and wildlife observation while limiting behaviors that can lead to overpopulation, increased human-wildlife conflict and broader neighborhood impacts.

The ordinance is expected to be presented for first reading only, with a potential second reading and adoption at a future meeting.

The April 27 meeting will also include other committee reports, resolutions and public comment periods.

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