Costa Mesa, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- Coyote Feeding
- Prohibited
- Wildlife Areas
- Talbert, Upper Newport Bay, Fairview
- Feral Cats
- TNR programs may be coordinated
- Trash
- Must be secured from wildlife
- OC Animal Care
- (714) 935-6848
Summary
Costa Mesa prohibits or discourages feeding wildlife including coyotes, feral cats, and pigeons in public areas. Residents must secure trash to prevent wildlife encounters. The city works with OC Animal Care on coyote management programs.
Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) can occur when humans encounter or interact with wild animals in an unwanted or unsafe way. In California, habitat loss and a changing climate have increased the frequency and type of HWC reported to CDFW. It has become more common for people to be "living with wildlife" as communities grow along the urban-wildlands interface and wildlife look for limited resources such as food, water, and habitat. As the State's trustee agency for fish and wildlife, CDFW has developed a robust HWC Toolkit to help reduce or prevent wildlife damage and conflict with wildlife.
Full Breakdown
CMMC provisions address wildlife management in the city. Deliberately feeding coyotes is prohibited and creates public safety hazards. Costa Mesa has an active coyote population, particularly near the Talbert Nature Preserve, Upper Newport Bay, and Fairview Park areas. The city participates in coyote management programs and educates residents on coexistence strategies. Feeding feral cats on public property may be restricted, though managed Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs may be permitted through coordination with OC Animal Care. Feeding pigeons and other pest birds in public areas and parks is discouraged and may violate park rules. Residents must secure trash containers to prevent attracting wildlife. Pet food should not be left outdoors. OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 handles wildlife complaints. Costa Mesa Animal Control responds to coyote sightings and aggressive wildlife encounters.
Violations & Fines
Deliberately feeding coyotes may result in code enforcement citations and fines. Failure to secure trash attracting wildlife may violate nuisance provisions. Repeat offenders face escalating fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Costa Mesa?
What do I do about coyotes in my Costa Mesa neighborhood?
Can I feed feral cats in Costa Mesa?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Costa Mesa
California rules heatmap·Compare Costa Mesa to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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Wildlife Feeding in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Orange County handle wildlife feeding.