Intentionally feeding coyotes, raccoons, skunks, deer, feral cats, or non-songbird wildlife is prohibited in Sunnyvale as a public nuisance due to the risk of human-wildlife conflict in Baylands-adjacent neighborhoods.
Sunnyvale treats intentional wildlife feeding as a public nuisance enforceable by Animal Control and Code Enforcement. Feeding coyotes, raccoons, opossums, skunks, turkeys, and deer is prohibited because it habituates animals to people and causes property damage, pet attacks, and disease transmission. Feeding feral cat colonies is allowed only through a managed Trap-Neuter-Return program with designated caretakers, not casual porch feeding. Songbird feeders are permitted but should be maintained to avoid attracting rodents and bears of interest, and should be removed if they attract restricted wildlife. Properties near the Sunnyvale Baylands, Persian Drive, and the Moffett Channel experience significant coyote activity and are flagged priority enforcement zones. Violators receive a warning and abatement order, with escalating fines for repeat feeding.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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