California Fish & Game Code §251.1 prohibits harassing wildlife, and intentionally feeding large mammals such as deer, coyotes, bears, or mountain lions is strongly discouraged and can trigger nuisance abatement. Riverside residents should also avoid attracting wildlife via unsecured trash and pet food.
California does not have a single statewide wildlife-feeding ban for all species, but California Fish & Game Code §251.1 prohibits harassment of game mammals and certain protected species, which CDFW interprets to include activities causing wildlife to become dependent on or habituated to humans. Intentionally feeding deer, coyotes, bears, bobcats, mountain lions, and similar species can attract larger predators into residential areas, create public-safety hazards, and is addressed through citations and nuisance abatement. Riverside sits at the wildland-urban interface near Box Springs, Sycamore Canyon, and the Santa Ana River, making deer, coyote, and occasional mountain lion encounters common. Feeding waterfowl and songbirds is generally allowed, though bird feeders must be maintained to avoid attracting rats. The California Penal Code prohibits creating public nuisances, which can apply where feeding attracts dangerous wildlife to neighborhoods. Unintentional attractants such as unsecured trash cans, outdoor pet food, and fallen fruit can be cited by Code Enforcement if they contribute to a wildlife nuisance. Residents who encounter injured or aggressive wildlife should contact CDFW (858-467-4201) or Riverside County Animal Services.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Riverside code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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