A bull moose jumps over a fence in northern Utah. Photo: Getty Images
PLEASANT GROVE, Utah (AP) — A city in Utah has banned residents from feeding wild deer, elk or moose.
The Pleasant Grove City Council enacted the ordinance Tuesday as part of an effort aimed at reducing the deer population.
City officials say urban deer have increasingly become a nuisance, damaging property and causing wrecks.
Pleasant Grove police say 17 wrecks involving deer were reported in the city last year.
The ordinance allows authorities to charge people caught intentionally feeding wild game, including deer, elk and moose, with misdemeanor violations.
Residents won’t face charges if deer feed on vegetation or other landscaping features at a house.
Food left for birds is exempt as is feed for agricultural or livestock operations.