What guidelines are in Chandler’s bird ordinance and what would violations mean?

The City of Chandler’s bird ordinance that clarifies when feeding nondomesticated birds becomes a public nuisance and how it should be done responsibly went into effect last Saturday, July 11.

The ordinance, which passed unanimously and focused on birds such as feral pigeons, gave clear guidelines that must be met for feeding to be permitted:

• Feeding cannot cause droppings discernible by sight or smell to accumulate on neighboring or private property
• The property must not attract rodents or other wild animals
• Bird feeders must be placed at least 5 feet above the ground

The height of the bird feeders is specifically to prevent infestations, Erica Barba, Neighborhood Preservation Senior Manager for the City of Chandler, told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

“Roaches and rodents kind of go toward whatever is left on the floor,” Barba said. “We kind of want to prohibit that and make sure that everybody’s feeding responsibly.”

The city is focused on education in the early stages of the ordinance, so the first step for those in violation will be a “courtesy letter” or a conversation after a knock on the door, Barba said.

After three notices of violation, with days between to allow for adjusted behavior, people who are still causing a nuisance may be subject to a civil citation.

“We would remind them that they’re impacting quality of life within their community,” Barba said.

The new guidelines do not apply to Chandler residents who keep chickens and comply with the relevant city code.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Kellen Shover contributed to this report.

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