Santa Clara, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Santa Clara City Code Chapter 6.10 prohibits the intentional feeding of non-domestic wildlife within city limits. This includes coyotes (increasingly present in Silicon Valley neighborhoods), raccoons, skunks, opossums, deer, feral cats, pigeons, crows, and waterfowl. Bird feeders for songbirds are generally allowed but must be maintained to not attract rodents or larger wildlife; seed spillage must be cleaned up. Feeding stations that attract coyotes or raccoons to yards are specifically cited because habituated wildlife become public safety concerns, especially near Santa Clara University and school routes. Feral cat colonies may be managed only under approved Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs in coordination with animal welfare organizations. Dumpsters and trash containers must be kept closed to avoid inadvertent wildlife feeding, which can trigger code violations at commercial properties. California Fish and Wildlife Code also prohibits feeding big game (deer, bear) statewide. Fines for violations start at 100 dollars and increase with repeat offenses.