Buena Park, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Research of Buena Park's Municipal Code did not find a dedicated section that prohibits feeding wildlife such as coyotes, raccoons, opossums, or feral cats by name. Instead, the city relies on its general animal-nuisance and sanitation provisions. The code states that no person may keep, maintain, or permit on any premises under their control any animal that disturbs the peace or that is maintained so as to cause the breeding of flies, the creation of obnoxious odors, or any condition that becomes a nuisance or health hazard. All premises where animals are kept must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition with debris, refuse, and waste removed daily. Practically, leaving food out that attracts and sustains wild animals, vermin, or large feral-cat colonies can be abated as a nuisance or sanitation violation under these provisions. On top of the local rules, California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1 and related Title 14 regulations make it unlawful to harass or feed big-game mammals, and feeding that habituates predators like coyotes is discouraged statewide because of public-safety risk. Residents with coyote or wildlife concerns should contact SEAACA at (562) 803-3301 or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The City urges residents not to feed wildlife and to secure trash and pet food.