Maryland has introduced a new law that directly affects pet owners across the state, particularly those who feed their pets outdoors.
The Maryland Pet Feeder Law, passed in 2025, aims to regulate how pet food is managed, focusing on hygiene, public safety, and the welfare of both pets and the community. Whether you’re an experienced pet owner or a new one, understanding this law is essential to ensure that you are complying with the regulations and providing the best care for your pet.
In this article, we’ll break down the key provisions of the law, why it was introduced, and how it impacts pet owners in Maryland.
What is the Maryland Pet Feeder Law?
The Maryland Pet Feeder Law was enacted to address concerns related to the improper feeding of pets outdoors. When pet food is left outside, it can attract wild animals, pests, and create unsanitary conditions. The law provides clear guidelines for pet owners on how to feed their pets in a responsible manner, especially outdoors. Its main goal is to maintain public health and safety by regulating how, when, and where pet food can be placed.
The law ensures that pet owners feed their pets in a controlled, hygienic way, while also preventing issues like attracting wildlife or creating nuisances for neighbors. With this law, Maryland aims to encourage responsible pet ownership, reduce environmental impact, and ensure the health of both pets and the surrounding community.
Key Provisions of the Pet Feeder Law
The Maryland Pet Feeder Law includes several important provisions that all pet owners must follow. Here are the key components of the law:
1. Time Limits for Outdoor Feeding
The new law limits how long pet food can be left outside. Pet food should not be left outdoors for more than 4 hours. If the food is not consumed within this time frame, it must be removed or disposed of. This regulation is intended to prevent food from attracting wildlife, such as raccoons, squirrels, and other animals that may cause damage, spread diseases, or create a public nuisance.
By enforcing a time limit on outdoor feeding, the law helps to ensure that food does not sit around attracting unwanted animals and pests, which could become a health hazard for both pets and people.
2. Designated Feeding Areas
Pet owners are required to feed their pets in designated areas that are both safe and secure. Feeding pets outside in public spaces, or leaving food scattered across yards or sidewalks, is prohibited. The food must be placed in a secure pet dish or container that prevents spillage and limits exposure to wildlife.
By keeping the feeding area contained, pet owners can help prevent food from being left unattended, reduce the risk of attracting pests, and maintain a cleaner environment.
3. Prohibition of Feeding in Public Spaces
Under the Maryland Pet Feeder Law, pet owners are not allowed to feed their pets or stray animals in public spaces such as parks, sidewalks, or streets. While it may seem like a kind gesture to feed stray animals, the law prohibits this practice to prevent food from attracting wild animals, creating sanitation issues, or encouraging pests.
Pet owners are encouraged to feed their pets in private, controlled areas where they can better manage the situation and keep public spaces clean and safe.
4. Proper Disposal of Leftover Food
Pet owners are responsible for properly disposing of any leftover food. If food is not consumed within the specified time frame, it must be disposed of in a sanitary way. This includes throwing the food away or storing it indoors if necessary. Leftover food should not be left outdoors, as it can attract pests and cause hygiene issues.
Proper food disposal helps ensure that the surrounding environment remains clean and free of food waste that could attract unwanted wildlife.
5. Fines and Penalties for Non-Compliance
To ensure that pet owners follow the law, the Maryland Pet Feeder Law includes a system of fines and penalties. Pet owners who fail to follow the time limits, feeding area guidelines, or food disposal regulations may face fines. Repeated violations could result in increased penalties or even mandatory educational programs on responsible pet ownership.
Why Was This Law Created?
The Maryland Pet Feeder Law was introduced in response to several concerns, including:
1. Public Health and Safety
Leaving pet food outdoors can attract wildlife, which may carry diseases, parasites, or pests that can be transmitted to both pets and humans. By regulating the feeding times and ensuring food is not left outside too long, the law helps reduce the risk of health-related issues, such as disease transmission or pest infestations. Additionally, the presence of wild animals can pose a safety risk to pets and humans if animals become aggressive in their search for food.
2. Hygiene and Cleanliness
Improper food disposal can lead to unsanitary conditions, both in private yards and in public spaces. Leftover food can attract rodents, insects, and other pests, which can contaminate the environment. The law encourages pet owners to clean up after their pets, helping to maintain a cleaner environment for both pets and people.
3. Protection of Local Wildlife
Feeding wildlife can cause animals to become dependent on human-provided food, disrupting their natural feeding habits. When wild animals start relying on food from humans, they may enter urban areas more frequently, which can lead to dangerous interactions with pets, humans, and other wildlife. The law helps prevent wildlife from becoming accustomed to human-provided food by limiting feeding to controlled, private areas.
How Can Pet Owners Comply with the New Law?
Complying with the Maryland Pet Feeder Law is simple, and pet owners can follow these basic steps to ensure they are meeting the regulations:
1. Feed Pets in Controlled, Secure Areas
Pet food should only be placed in designated areas that are secure and easy to clean. Avoid scattering food in public spaces or leaving food on the ground where it could attract wildlife or create a mess.
2. Set a Feeding Schedule
Feed your pets during specific times of the day, and ensure that food is consumed within 4 hours. If your pet doesn’t finish its food, remove it promptly to avoid attracting pests and wild animals.
3. Clean Up Immediately After Feeding
After your pet finishes eating, clean the feeding area right away. Dispose of any leftover food and wash the feeding dish to ensure that no food is left out overnight or for extended periods.
4. Be Mindful of Public Spaces
Do not feed pets or stray animals in public areas such as parks or streets. Always ensure that your pet’s feeding is done in a private, contained area where food is not left unattended.
5. Stay Informed About Local Regulations
Some municipalities in Maryland may have additional rules or ordinances in place regarding pet feeding. Make sure to check with local authorities to ensure that you’re following all relevant laws.
The Maryland Pet Feeder Law is an important step in promoting responsible pet ownership and protecting public health and safety. By following the guidelines on feeding times, designated areas, food disposal, and public feeding restrictions, pet owners can help maintain cleaner, safer communities and ensure the well-being of their pets.
Understanding and complying with the Maryland Pet Feeder Law not only helps avoid fines but also contributes to a healthier, more harmonious environment for both pets and the people who live alongside them. By being a responsible pet owner, you are doing your part in creating a cleaner, safer community for everyone.
