Santa Paula, CA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- Prohibited
- Feeding coyotes, bears, deer, wildlife
- Trash
- Must be secured with lids
- Pet Food
- Bring indoors at night
- Fallen Fruit
- Pick up regularly
- Wildlife Line
- Animal Services (805) 388-4341
Summary
Santa Paula prohibits the intentional feeding of coyotes, bears, deer, and other wildlife that may create nuisance or safety hazards. Residents must secure trash and pet food to avoid attracting wildlife. The Santa Clara River corridor brings wildlife close to residential areas.
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.
Full Breakdown
Under SPMC nuisance provisions and Ventura County regulations, intentionally feeding coyotes, bears, mountain lions, deer, and other potentially dangerous wildlife is prohibited. Santa Paula's location along the Santa Clara River and adjacent to Los Padres National Forest brings wildlife into close proximity with residential neighborhoods. Coyotes are common throughout the city. Residents must keep trash containers secured with lids, bring pet food indoors at night, pick up fallen fruit from trees (especially important given Santa Paula's abundant citrus trees), and eliminate standing water sources. Bird feeders are allowed but must be designed to minimize ground spillage that attracts rodents. Feral cat colonies may not be maintained on private property.
Violations & Fines
Intentional wildlife feeding may result in warnings from Animal Services followed by fines of $100–$500 for repeat offenses. Property owners who fail to secure attractants may be cited for nuisance conditions. Ventura County Animal Services handles wildlife complaints at (805) 388-4341.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed wildlife in Santa Paula?
What should I do about coyotes near my home?
Can I feed feral cats?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Paula
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Paula to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Wildlife Feeding in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Ventura County handle wildlife feeding.