Yes, it is legal to feed deer in Maine from mid-December through May, but it is strictly prohibited from June 1 through December 15. This ban covers most of the deer hunting season and aims to prevent wildlife disease transmission and public safety hazards.
When Feeding Deer Is Illegal in Maine
Under Maine law (12 M.R.S. § 10659), you cannot place salt, bait, or any food to entice deer during these periods:
- June 1 to the start of open deer hunting season
- After the last open deer season closes until December 15 (if all seasons end before December 15)
This law applies to everyone, not just hunters. You can violate it even if you’re feeding deer for photography, wildlife observation, or “giving back to the environment”. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife emphasizes that deer feeding is prohibited except by permit.
Penalty for Violating the Law
Violating Maine’s deer feeding prohibition is a civil offense with fines between $500 and $1,000. If you’re caught hunting over deer bait instead, your hunting license may be revoked.
Why Experts Don’t Recommend Feeding Deer Even When Legal
While feeding deer is legal from mid-December through May, wildlife biologists strongly discourage it:
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife can order removal of food items if feeding creates hazards or harms deer.
Key Takeaway
Avoid feeding deer entirely unless you have an official permit. Even during the legal period (mid-December to May), wildlife experts recommend letting deer eat naturally from their habitat rather than providing human food sources.
SOURCES
- https://www.lokllc.com/news/maine-law-on-deer-baiting-and-hunting-over-deer-bait/
- https://www.legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/bills_128th/billtexts/HP054701.asp
