Wildlife Feeding: Altadena vs Santa Monica
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Altadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Altadena and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Feeding wildlife in unincorporated LA County is discouraged and may violate nuisance provisions. CDFW regulations prohibit feeding certain species. The county's large unincorporated areas include wildlife corridors where feeding attracts coyotes, bears, and mountain lions near communities like Altadena and Topanga.
View full Altadena rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Feeding wildlife in Santa Monica public parks and beaches is discouraged. The city's property maintenance code addresses nuisance conditions from wildlife attraction. Feeding pigeons and pest wildlife can create code violations.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Policy | Discouraged, may be nuisance | - |
| Coyotes | County actively discourages feeding | - |
| Wildlife Areas | Altadena, Topanga, mountain communities | - |
| State Law | CDFW regulates wildlife interactions | - |
| Parks/Beaches | - | Wildlife feeding discouraged |
| Nuisance | - | Property maintenance violations |
| Pigeons | - | Feeding attracts pest wildlife |
| Enforcement | - | Code Enforcement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Is it illegal to feed wildlife in LA County?
Feeding coyotes is specifically prohibited by county ordinance. Feeding other wildlife is discouraged and may trigger nuisance complaints. Feeding protected species can violate state Fish & Wildlife regulations.
Can I feed feral cats in unincorporated LA County?
While not specifically banned, feeding feral cats can create nuisance conditions (attracting rodents, coyotes) that violate county nuisance ordinances. Many communities have trap-neuter-return programs as an alternative.
Who do I contact about nuisance wildlife?
Contact the LA County Agricultural Commissioner at (626) 575-5471 for wildlife issues. For coyote sightings, contact LA County Animal Care & Control at (562) 728-4610.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I feed birds in my yard?
Generally yes, but Santa Monica may restrict bird feeders in areas with bear or other wildlife activity. Check local rules.
Is it illegal to feed stray cats?
Feral cat colony management rules vary in Santa Monica. Casual feeding may violate wildlife feeding ordinances.
Compare other topics
See how Altadena and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.
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