Coyotes are present throughout Atlanta neighborhoods. Georgia DNR classifies coyotes as nongame wildlife with year-round trapping authority, while Atlanta urges hazing and removal of attractants instead of feeding or relocation.
Coyote management in Atlanta is shared between Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division and city Animal Services. Under OCGA Title 27 and Georgia Board of Natural Resources rules, coyotes may be hunted or trapped year-round on private property by licensed individuals or contracted Wildlife Control Operators. Atlanta does not authorize discharge of firearms within city limits except in narrow self-defense circumstances under OCGA 16-11-127. Residents are directed to secure trash, remove pet food after dusk, supervise small pets, and use noise-based hazing to discourage habituation. Sick or aggressive coyotes are reported to GA DNR for assessment.
Illegal firearm discharge within city limits is a misdemeanor under Atlanta Code Ch. 74 with significant fines; relocating trapped coyotes off-property is prohibited by Georgia rules and can revoke trapping privileges.
Atlanta, GA
Georgia has strict exotic pet laws under OCGA §27-5. Atlanta residents cannot keep big cats, primates, venomous reptiles, wolves, or bears without a state wi...
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta prohibits feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance. Intentional feeding of deer, raccoons, coyotes, or feral hogs is banned under both city nuisance ...
See how Atlanta's coyote management rules stack up against other locations.
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