Feeding pigeons is illegal in Venice

The Short Answer

TRUE! Feeding pigeons in St. Mark's Square and other areas is prohibited. The famous image of tourists covered in pigeons is now technically illegal to recreate.

The Full Story

Venice's pigeon population had become a genuine problem. Their droppings were damaging historic buildings - the acidic waste erodes marble and stone.

Enforcement: This one is actually enforced. Vendors who once sold birdseed to tourists were shut down. Signs warn against feeding, and fines have been issued.

The law was enacted in 2008 as part of efforts to protect the city's historic architecture and reduce the massive pigeon population in the tourist areas.

Common Misconceptions

Many tourists assume the ban only applies to St. Mark's Square, but it covers the entire city of Venice. Some visitors also believe the rule is merely a suggestion or rarely enforced, but fines of up to €500 are actively issued. The ban also extends to feeding seagulls and other birds, not just pigeons.

Actual Legal Text

Municipal ordinance enacted by the City of Venice under Mayor Massimo Cacciari, effective May 1, 2008, banning the feeding of pigeons in St. Mark's Square and throughout the city. The regulation was introduced to control the pigeon population, which was blamed for spreading disease and damaging the city's historic facades and monuments.