Morocco Plans Fines of Up to 3,000 Dirhams for Feeding Stray Animals

A New Law Targeting Public Feeding of Strays

The Moroccan government, led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, has approved draft law No. 19.25, which aims to regulate the management of stray dogs—and potentially other stray animals—across the country.

Under the bill, feeding, sheltering, or caring for stray animals in public spaces—including streets, shared areas of buildings, or any open public place—will be prohibited. Violations could result in fines ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 dirhams (approximately $150 to $300 USD).

The legislation was transmitted to Parliament and examined in committee on July 22, 2025, according to local news outlet Alyaoum24.

Cats and Dogs? The Law’s Wording Raises Concerns

One point that has sparked debate is the lack of clarity in the bill’s language. While the government has framed the measure as focusing on stray dogs, the term “animals” in the text is vague—raising the possibility that it could also apply to stray cats.

Given the large populations of both dogs and cats on Moroccan streets, this ambiguity has alarmed animal welfare organizations, who fear a blanket ban on feeding any stray animal in public.

Plans for Shelters and Registration

The proposed law is not solely punitive. It also calls for the creation of specialized centers to receive and care for stray animals, as well as the implementation of an electronic declaration system for citizens wishing to host a stray animal at home.

However, critics point out that building and operating such shelters requires significant resources and long-term planning—elements often missing in previous government initiatives.

A Ban With Broader Implications

If passed, the law will criminalize a long-standing cultural practice in Morocco: feeding street animals in public spaces. In cities across the country, residents and shopkeepers routinely put out food for stray dogs and cats as an informal form of community care.

Animal advocates are now asking a critical question: If ordinary citizens are banned from helping these animals, who will care for the hundreds of thousands of strays left behind?

The announcement also comes as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, prompting speculation about whether the measure is part of broader urban “clean-up” efforts ahead of the event.