Murrieta, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Murrieta sits at the edge of undeveloped chaparral and wildland-urban interface areas with frequent wildlife activity including coyotes, bobcats, mule deer, raccoons, opossums, skunks, and occasionally mountain lions. California Code of Regulations Title 14 Section 251.3 prohibits the intentional feeding of big game mammals including deer, elk, antelope, bear, wild pig, and mountain lion. Feeding coyotes and other predators is strongly discouraged and can result in enforcement as a public nuisance because it habituates wild animals to humans, increases predator-prey conflicts, and creates attractive nuisances for neighbors.

Murrieta property owners are expected to manage attractants: pet food should not be left outside overnight, fruit should be picked up, trash containers secured, barbecues cleaned, and bird feeders maintained to minimize ground spill. Backyard chicken coops must be predator-proof, as unsecured poultry draws coyotes and bobcats into neighborhoods. Intentional feeding that creates a nuisance for neighbors (raccoon gatherings, rat attraction, coyote habituation) can be abated under municipal nuisance provisions. Bird feeders are generally permitted but must not create rodent problems. Report wildlife concerns to California Department of Fish and Wildlife; report habituated or aggressive wildlife (especially coyotes showing boldness) immediately. Do not approach or trap wildlife without permits.