Oakley, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Oakley's location on the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta places it adjacent to one of California's most ecologically sensitive areas, resulting in robust wildlife protection. California Fish and Game Code Sections 2000, 2014, and 3513 broadly prohibit taking, possessing, or harassing native wildlife without a permit. The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act prohibits disturbing nests of most native birds. The Delta hosts listed species including the giant garter snake, Chinook salmon runs, Delta smelt, and numerous waterbird species at Big Break Regional Shoreline, and federal Endangered Species Act protections apply. Oakley specifically prohibits feeding wildlife in city parks and on public property under Oakley Municipal Code — this prevents habituation of raccoons, skunks, and coyotes, which in turn reduces dangerous interactions. Trapping urban wildlife like raccoons or skunks requires a depredation permit from CDFW for most species and is generally limited to licensed wildlife control operators. Deer in the outer Oakley area, tule elk reintroduction populations, and migratory waterfowl are all protected. Nuisance wildlife encounters should be reported to CDFW; injured wildlife should be taken to Lindsay Wildlife Experience in Walnut Creek. Mountain lions and bobcats occasionally pass through, and reporting sightings to CDFW is encouraged.