On Tuesday, the Isle of Palms City Council approved an ordinance banning the feeding of wildlife on the island, passing it with a vote of 6-1.
Under the ordinance, residents must remove any food or feeding devices left on their property, with a few notable exceptions. Feral dogs and cats may still be fed, provided it’s done in a way that minimizes the attraction of other wildlife. Additionally, bird feeders are allowed if kept clean, with any spilled seed promptly removed to avoid drawing unwanted animals. Water for wildlife may also still be provided.
Council members voiced concerns about potential ambiguity in the ordinance's definition of feeding, which includes both intentional and unintentional acts.
“If someone has a bird feeder and it spills, could they be penalized for attracting squirrels?” asked Councilman Jimmy Ward.
Similarly, Councilwoman Carroll questioned enforcement, adding, “If someone continues feeding wildlife but claims they’re feeding a feral cat, how do you prove they’re violating the ordinance?”
Ward told The Island Eye that the catalyst for the ordinance stemmed from a dispute between two neighbors—one of whom was feeding raccoons, causing property damage and raising safety concerns.
“This issue could have been dealt with using the already existing nuisance ordinance,” he explained, highlighting that the City Council could have instructed the police chief to issue a notice to the resident to stop feeding wildlife. “None of this was done—we went overboard and outlawed all feeding of wildlife.”
Ward also raised concerns about effectiveness, stating, “You can leave water out for wildlife but not food. Fresh water can be as much of a draw as animal food.”
In response, Isle of Palms Police Chief Kevin Cornett assured that enforcement of the ordinance would prioritize common sense.
“Our goal is compliance; it has never been the goal of the police department to issue fines to everybody.”
He cited Tega Cay as an example of a South Carolina city that has implemented similar measures. He reiterated that the police will focus on serious violations that pose a public safety threat. Councilman Bogosian echoed Cornett, stating that the ordinance targets serious threats to public safety rather than minor interactions.
In a conversation with The Island Eye, Ward questioned this logic: “If we’re not going to fully enforce it, why pass the ordinance at all?”
He also criticized the broader trend toward increased regulation.
“I liked the Isle of Palms when I moved here in ’86 because it was laid-back, friendly, and had low taxes. Over the years, it’s been transformed,” he said. “There are more and more rules, regulations, and fines than we’ve ever had before.”
Councilwoman Miars strongly supported the ordinance, noting the harmful effects of feeding wild animals, which can lead to increased disease transmission, predator attacks, and dependency on humans.
“This is a much-needed ordinance,” she said.
The ordinance follows the council's directive for city staff to explore strategies for reducing raccoon and coyote sightings. Based on recommendations from a USDA director, the staff stressed that preventing wildlife feeding is critical in minimizing human-animal encounters, underscoring the importance of not leaving food out to discourage interactions.
In summary, the Isle of Palms City Council’s decision reflects a commitment to fostering a safer, more sustainable environment for both residents and wildlife.
