Los Angeles follows a coexistence policy: residents are expected to haze coyotes and remove attractants. LAMC §53.06.5 makes it unlawful to feed wildlife, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife rules forbid relocation or trapping of healthy coyotes that have not threatened public safety.
LA Animal Services manages coyotes through a coexistence framework rather than removal. Residents are urged to haze coyotes by yelling, waving arms, banging objects, or spraying water so the animals retain a healthy fear of people. LAMC §53.06.5 prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife, including putting out food or leaving pet bowls outside. California Fish and Game Code and CDFW policy bar relocation of healthy coyotes; depredation permits to remove a specific coyote are reserved for animals showing aggression or attacking pets. Owners must keep small pets supervised, especially at dawn and dusk, and secure trash, fallen fruit, and compost.
Feeding coyotes or other wildlife is a misdemeanor under LAMC §53.06.5, with fines that escalate per offense. Illegal trapping or relocation can violate California Fish and Game Code, bringing state-level fines and possible loss of any depredation permit.
Los Angeles, CA
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See how Los Angeles's coyote management rules stack up against other locations.
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