November 26, 2025

Dauphin Island Leaders Propose New Ordiances That Include Jail, Fines For Feeding Foxes

By: Dale Hines
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News

November 26, 2027

DAUPHIN ISLAND, AL. Leaders on the island are now discussing implementing a new ordinance that would outlaw anyone from feeding the foxes that still roam the island.
This comes after a court order allowed the city to exterminate foxes on Dauphin Island.

Other areas along the Gulf Coast have similar ordinances preventing people from feeding alligators or certain birds including geese and ducks.

The foxes have been living on the east end of the island for decades, but city officials say they’re doing damage to nesting birds and turtles and pose a safety hazard to humans as well.

Currently the city is considering two proposed ordinances that would make the intentional feeding of, not just foxes, but raccoons, possums and other wildlife -a crime punishable with a fine up to $500 and/or imprisonment for up to six months.
The same goes for anyone attempting to “treat or medicate” any wildlife.

Ordinances are local laws, written and passed by city or town governments and only apply to that jurisdiction. Ordinances are considered misdemeanor criminal offenses.

The town said that they may exclude the managed feeding of the island feral cat colonies that are part of a city approved catch-neuter-release program.

A hearing at the Town Hall is scheduled for Monday, December 1, 2025.

Both of these proposed ordinances will be the focus of a public hearing at the Dauphin Island Town Hall council chambers on Monday, December 1st at 4 pm.

Written public comments can be submitted at the meeting or faxed ahead of time to Dauphin Island City Hall.