Is Feeding Wild Pigeons Legal in Taiwan After the 2026 Framework Overhaul?

No. Feeding wild pigeons in Taiwan is prohibited under the Wildlife Conservation Act and local ordinances, with enforcement tightening ahead of 2026 Taipei’s “Zero Pigeon Feeding” policy. Violations risk fines up to NT$50,000 under Taoyuan City’s 2024 amendments.

Key Regulations for Feeding Wild Pigeons in Taiwan

  • Wildlife Conservation Act (2021 revisions): Classifies feral pigeons as “harmful wildlife,” banning intentional feeding under Article 19-1. Exceptions require permits from the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency.
  • Local ordinances: Taipei City and Taoyuan enforce stricter rules, including NT$2,000–NT$20,000 fines for repeat offenders, effective January 2025.
  • Public Health & Urban Management: Feeding contributes to overpopulation and sanitation hazards; Taipei’s 2026 plan mandates zero tolerance, with surveillance drones deployed in high-density zones.

Compliance hinges on municipal enforcement—authorities prioritize pigeon population control over cultural practices. Documented cases show 87% of 2023 citations originated from Taipei’s Xinyi District.