[Adopted 11-27-2012 by L.L. No. 12-2012]
A.Â
The Board of Trustees finds that the increase in the population of
waterfowl in the Village of Dobbs Ferry has caused conditions which
are disturbing the Village residents in their homes and public places.
The substantial number of waterfowl, particularly on public property,
has caused an extensive amount of droppings to accumulate. Further,
the large numbers of waterfowl have become aggressive in their actions
toward individuals, particularly small children. All of this has resulted
in the inability of the residents of the Village to fully enjoy and
utilize recreational areas and facilities. Because of the increasing
population of waterfowl, these conditions have begun to affect private
property as well.
B.Â
The Board of Trustees finds, based upon investigation into the matter,
that the feeding of fowl by humans tends to increase the number of
waterfowl in areas where the feeding has taken place and interferes
with the animals' natural feeding, growth and migratory processes.
It provides an additional source of food for the waterfowl not found
naturally and allows relatively small areas to support increasingly
large numbers of waterfowl. The Board of Trustees further finds that
this situation adversely affects the health, safety and welfare of
the residents of the Village.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
For the purposes of this article, the placing of any food
substances on public property for the purpose of feeding waterfowl.
For the purposes of this article, Canadian geese, ducks,
pigeons, seagulls and other fowl commonly found in and around bodies
of water.
It shall be unlawful for any person to feed waterfowl on any
publicly owned land.
Any violation of this article shall be considered an offense
punishable by a fine in an amount which shall not be in excess of
$250 for each offense.
Should any provision of this article be declared unconstitutional,
invalid, or ineffective, in whole or in part, such determination shall
not be deemed to affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder thereof.
This article shall take effect immediately upon filing in the
office of the Secretary of State.
