California Fish & Game Code §3503 to §3516 protect native birds, nests, and eggs, including raptors and migratory species. LA County Title 10.84 layers a wildlife harm and feeding ban for unincorporated areas, with DACC and CDFW enforcement.
California Fish & Game Code §§3503-3516 protect virtually every native bird, prohibiting taking or possessing birds, nests, or eggs without a permit, with stronger protection for raptors (§3503.5) and migratory non-game birds (§3513, mirroring the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act). In unincorporated LA County, LACO Title 10.84 reinforces those rules by banning intentional harm to wildlife, including discharging firearms, poisoning, and certain trapping. Wildlife feeding bans under Title 10.84.010 protect waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds from junk-food dependency. CDFW handles bird-specific enforcement; DACC and the Sheriff handle local wildlife harm calls.
Killing or harassing protected birds, or destroying nests with eggs or chicks, can mean misdemeanor charges under Fish & Game Code §3503 plus federal MBTA exposure. LACO Title 10.84 violations add county citations, fines, and possible criminal referral.
See how Santa Monica's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
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