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

We reviewed Modoc County Code Title 6 and found no county section prohibiting residents from feeding wild animals such as deer, antelope, bears, or coyotes. The animal code addresses dog control and bees only and does not regulate the feeding of free-roaming wildlife. Because no specific county wildlife-feeding ordinance exists, the governing rules are at the state level. California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 251.3 prohibits the intentional feeding of 'big game' mammals, a category that includes deer and bear, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) strongly discourages feeding wildlife generally because it habituates animals, spreads disease, and increases dangerous human-wildlife conflict. Modoc County is high-desert, high-mountain habitat with abundant deer, pronghorn antelope, and other wildlife, plus large protected areas such as the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge, so intentional feeding can cause real harm and may draw enforcement attention from CDFW or refuge authorities. Residents who unintentionally attract wildlife by leaving out food or unsecured garbage are best served by removing attractants. For problems with wild animals, contact CDFW; for problems involving owned dogs, contact the Modoc County Sheriff's animal control. Because there is no specific county rule to cite, we do not state one; verify any newer state or local guidance before feeding or attempting to manage wildlife.