Modesto, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- Local ordinance
- None – no Modesto prohibition
- State law
- CA Fish & Game Code §251.1
- State penalty
- Up to $1,000 fine, 6 months jail
- Animals of concern
- Coyotes, raccoons, deer, feral cats
Summary
Modesto has no municipal ordinance specifically prohibiting the feeding of wild animals. California state law, chiefly Fish and Game Code §251.1, governs wildlife harassment, and feeding can constitute illegal harassment when it threatens animal health or safety.
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. ... Knowing how to safely and effectively address human-wildlife conflicts may feel overwhelming. What methods you may use are governed by federal and state, and local laws and ordinances.
Full Breakdown
A review of Modesto Municipal Code Title 5, Chapter 4 (Animals) confirms no ordinance expressly prohibiting the feeding of wildlife such as coyotes, deer, raccoons, or feral cats. The chapter addresses domestic animals, dogs, and rodent abatement but not wildlife feeding. California Fish and Game Code §251.1 makes it unlawful to harass or pursue wildlife in a way that disrupts normal behavior, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife guidance states that feeding wildlife can constitute unlawful harassment. Stanislaus County animal services may discourage wildlife feeding under nuisance abatement authority.
Violations & Fines
No local fine. State Fish and Game Code §251.1 violations are misdemeanors punishable by up to 6 months jail and/or $1,000 fine per incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to feed ducks or geese at Modesto parks?
Can I be cited for feeding coyotes in Modesto?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Modesto
California rules heatmap·Compare Modesto to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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