Mayor of Kure Beach explains ordinance that bans feeding birds

KURE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The town council has approved an ordinance which bans feeding birds on or near the beach. The request was made after several citizens complained about the seagulls being fed near beach access points. 

Town council members debated to make sure the language included a ban on feeding birds near the dunes. 

A citation for a first-time violation of the ordinance is $25. More violations could lead to a misdemeanor criminal charge. 

Mayor Allen Oliver said it was a reoccurring problem that needs to be addressed. 

“It’s complaint driven only. So, if someone sees it, they can call the police. We’re not going to patrol the beaches looking for it. But it was a problem,” Oliver said. 

Oliver said the decision to implement an ordinance protects both wildlife and those attempting to feed it.