Sonora discourages feeding wildlife, particularly bears and deer, which are common in the Sierra Nevada foothills. Intentional feeding of wildlife that creates a public nuisance or attracts dangerous animals may result in code enforcement action and coordination with California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Sonora's location in the Sierra Nevada foothills means frequent encounters with black bears, deer, coyotes, and other wildlife. The city's nuisance provisions address wildlife feeding that attracts dangerous animals to residential areas. Residents must secure trash containers to prevent bear access, a significant issue in Tuolumne County. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulates wildlife interactions statewide. Feeding bears is particularly problematic as habituated bears may be destroyed. Bird feeders should be removed during bear season (spring through fall). Pet food must not be left outdoors overnight. Cal-Waste Recovery Systems provides bear-resistant trash container options for Sonora residents.
Feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance may result in code enforcement citations starting at $100. CDFW may issue separate citations for feeding protected species. Habituated bears may be destroyed, creating liability concerns.
Sonora, CA
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Sonora, CA
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