Spring City has adopted Ordinance 2026-09, which prohibits the feeding of deer within the city. The ordinance was passed by the Spring City Council to manage an increasing deer population.
According to the ordinance, it is unlawful for any person to make food available with the intent to attract deer on public or private lands. Prohibited food includes grain, fruit, mineral, salt, or vegetables placed outdoors, though the law excludes natural vegetation, gardens, trees, or fallen nuts and fruit.
The city stated the prohibition is intended to decrease property damage to landscaping and gardens. The measure also aims to reduce potential for bodily injury, loss of life, and property damage resulting from vehicle accidents involving deer. This action is described as an essential element of the city's Deer Control Plan, as required by State of Utah Regulation R657-65, Urban Deer Control.
The ordinance provides exceptions for certain authorized individuals, including peace officers, veterinarians, city employees, animal control officers, federal or state wildlife officials, and authorized urban bow-hunting specialists. These individuals may act to manage, capture, trap, or treat deer within their scope of authority.
Additionally, the provisions do not apply to individuals feeding livestock following conventional agriculture or livestock operation practices. Materials placed for the purpose of feeding deer are declared a public nuisance and may be abated through criminal prosecution or civil action, with fines assessed according to the fee schedule.
