Fullerton, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

The City of Fullerton addresses wildlife feeding through its nuisance abatement provisions and coordination with OC Animal Care and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Fullerton's suburban foothill neighborhoods along the northern city boundary regularly experience coyote, raccoon, opossum, and skunk encounters. The Municipal Code's nuisance provisions prohibit maintaining conditions on private property that attract or harbor nuisance wildlife. Intentionally feeding coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1, which makes it unlawful to feed big game mammals, and local enforcement extends to coyotes under nuisance animal provisions. Residents must store all trash and recycling in containers with secure, animal-proof lids. Pet food and water bowls must not be left outdoors overnight. Bird feeders are permitted but must be elevated and designed to minimize seed spillage that attracts rodents. Fallen fruit from backyard trees should be collected promptly. Feral cat feeding on public property may be subject to enforcement if it creates unsanitary conditions or attracts predators. The city participates in regional coyote management education through the OC Coyote Management Plan, emphasizing hazing techniques and habitat modification rather than lethal control.