Coyotes in Columbus neighborhoods fall under Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife rules; the city does not run trapping operations, and residents are advised to haze, secure trash, and protect pets rather than feed wildlife.
ODNR classifies coyotes as a non-game species without a closed hunting season, but firearm discharge inside Columbus city limits is prohibited under CCC §2323. Residents who experience persistent coyote conflict may hire a licensed nuisance wild-animal control operator under Ohio Administrative Code 1501:31-15-03. Columbus Recreation and Parks and Franklin County Metro Parks promote hazing techniques such as yelling, waving, and using noisemakers to restore wariness. Feeding coyotes or leaving accessible pet food, fallen fruit, or unsecured trash is discouraged and may trigger nuisance citations. Pet owners should supervise small dogs and cats, especially at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
Discharging a firearm at coyotes within city limits, feeding them, or hiring unlicensed trappers can lead to misdemeanor charges, ODNR enforcement action, and animal-cruelty review depending on circumstances.
Columbus, OH
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Columbus, OH
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See how Columbus's coyote management rules stack up against other locations.
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