Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Alameda County, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: CA Fish and Game Code 2816 →

Recently verified

Key Facts

Intentional feeding: Prohibited
Big game rule: Fish and Game 2816
First offense fine: $100 plus costs
Pet food outside: Prohibited overnight

City-specific rules exist: Oakland, Hayward, Fremont, San Leandro, Livermore, and Berkeley have their own wildlife feeding rules that differ from Alameda County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Alameda County prohibits the intentional feeding of deer, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, bears, and other wildlife. Violations are a public nuisance and can trigger fines. Songbird feeders are generally allowed.

Full Breakdown

Alameda County Code and state regulations (CA Fish and Game Code 2816 bear/big game feeding prohibition, CCR Title 14 Section 472 non-game mammals) prohibit feeding wildlife that can become habituated to humans. This specifically includes deer, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, opossums, skunks, mountain lions, and bears. Violations start at $100 and escalate with repeat offenses, and can support abatement orders requiring removal of attractants. Bird feeders for songbirds are allowed, but feed stations attracting rodents, turkeys, or aggressive wildlife may be ordered removed. Pet food must not be left outside overnight. The East Bay foothill communities (Castro Valley, San Lorenzo hills) have heightened enforcement due to mountain lion and coyote activity. Report injured wildlife to CDFW, not animal control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed stray cats?

Feral cat colonies should be managed through TNR programs. Unmanaged feeding that attracts wildlife may be cited.

Are squirrels and songbirds exempt?

Backyard bird feeders are permitted. If they attract rats, raccoons, or turkeys creating a nuisance, removal may be ordered.

How does Alameda County compare?

See how Alameda County's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.

Compare to Another Location View California Overview

Alameda County, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related Alameda County Ordinances

Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours

Noise Ordinances: Outdoor Music

Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules

Parking Rules: RV & Boat Parking

Parking Rules: Driveway Rules

Fence Regulations: Height Limits

More Animal Ordinances in Alameda County

Wildlife Feeding in Other Cities

How does Alameda County compare?

See something wrong?