Wildlife Feeding: Bakersfield vs Ridgecrest
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Ridgecrest, CA?
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Bakersfield prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife such as coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and feral dogs under BMC nuisance provisions and California Fish and Game Code. Bird feeding is generally permitted but feeders that attract rodents, create nuisance, or feed non-target wildlife may be ordered removed. Feeding coyotes and predatory wildlife is specifically discouraged due to public safety risks.
View full Bakersfield rules →Ridgecrest, CA
Kern County
No data available yet for Ridgecrest.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Ridgecrest |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Feeding | Prohibited if creates nuisance | - |
| State Law | CA F&G Code §251.1 | - |
| Bird Feeders | Generally OK if maintained | - |
| Coyote Feeding | Strongly discouraged, enforceable | - |
| Feral Cats | Via Kern County TNR programs | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Can I feed the coyotes that come into my yard?
No. Intentionally feeding coyotes habituates them to humans and creates a public safety risk. Bakersfield can cite this as a nuisance under BMC, and state law prohibits feeding big game. Keep pet food indoors and secure trash to avoid attracting wildlife.
Are bird feeders allowed in Bakersfield?
Yes, bird feeders are generally permitted. However, if your feeder attracts rodents, raccoons, or creates a neighbor nuisance, Code Enforcement can require you to remove or modify it. Keep feeders clean and use squirrel-resistant designs.
Ridgecrest FAQ
No FAQs available.
Compare other topics
See how Bakersfield and Ridgecrest compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool