Los Angeles, CA Animal Ordinances: Bird Protection (2026)
Key Facts
- Songbird killing
- Prohibited. LAMC § 53.48
- Nest destruction/robbing
- Prohibited. LAMC § 53.48
- Captive bird feeding interval
- At least every 12 hours
- Enclosure size minimum
- At least twice combined floor space of all birds held
- Height requirement
- Sufficient for each bird to stand in a natural erect position
Summary
Los Angeles prohibits killing songbirds or destroying their nests; impounding wild or domestic birds without proper food, water, and adequate space is also unlawful.
No person shall kill any song bird or destroy or rob the nest of any such bird.
No person shall impound any wild or domestic fowl or bird unless provision is made by such person, for the proper feeding and the furnishing of water to such fowl or bird at intervals not longer than twelve hours apart. No person shall impound any wild or domestic fowl or bird in a crate, box or other enclosure, which crate, box or other enclosure, is less than twice as large in floor space or standing room as the total size of all fowls or birds which may be impounded therein, and which is not sufficiently high to permit each fowl or bird impounded therein to stand in a natural erect position.
Full Breakdown
LAMC § 53.48 categorically prohibits any person from killing a songbird or destroying or robbing its nest. LAMC § 53.46 extends protections to all wild and domestic fowl and birds held in captivity, requiring feeding and watering at least every 12 hours and housing in enclosures at least twice the combined size of the birds housed with sufficient height for each bird to stand erect. These are distinct protections from the state Migratory Bird Treaty Act, providing independent city-level enforcement.
Violations & Fines
Violations of LAMC § 53.48 and § 53.46 are subject to misdemeanor prosecution under the general LAMC enforcement provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to kill birds in Los Angeles?
What rules apply if I keep birds in a cage?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles
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Bird Protection in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle bird protection.