Los Angeles protects wild birds under LAMC §53.55 and emerging bird-safe building design guidance, layered atop California Fish and Game Code §3500-3516 and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Native species, raptors, and active nests cannot be harmed or removed.
LAMC §53.55 prohibits killing, trapping, or harming wild birds within city limits except as authorized by state or federal permit. California Fish and Game Code §3503 makes it unlawful to take, possess, or destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, with §3503.5 elevating raptors and §3505 listing fully protected species. The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 USC §703) covers most native species. LA City Planning is developing bird-safe glazing guidance referenced in LAMC §13.07-area policies, requiring fritted or patterned glass on towers in flight corridors. Active nest removal during breeding season requires a CDFW depredation permit.
Harming a protected bird or active nest is a misdemeanor under Fish and Game Code §12000 with fines up to $1,000 and six months jail. Federal MBTA penalties reach $15,000 per bird; commercial taking can become a felony.
Los Angeles, CA
LAMC §17.05 (Native Tree Protection Ordinance) protects native oaks, sycamores, walnuts, and California junipers measuring four inches DBH or larger. Removal...
Los Angeles, CA
Anyone caring for injured native wildlife in Los Angeles must hold a California Department of Fish and Wildlife Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit under Fish and...
Los Angeles, CA
LAMC 53.06.5 prohibits feeding non-domesticated mammalian predators including coyotes, bears, and mountain lions. Feeding creates public safety hazards by ha...
See how Los Angeles's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
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