Wildlife Feeding: Bonsall vs El Cajon
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Bonsall, CA and El Cajon, CA?
Bonsall and El Cajon have similar restriction levels.
Bonsall, CA
San Diego County
San Diego County discourages feeding wildlife in unincorporated areas. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under County Code. Attracting nuisance wildlife through feeding can be cited under nuisance abatement provisions. California law also restricts feeding certain species.
View full Bonsall rules →El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon addresses wildlife feeding through its nuisance provisions and San Diego County regulations. Feeding wildlife such as coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1. The city's Code Compliance division enforces property conditions that attract nuisance wildlife.
View full El Cajon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bonsall | El Cajon |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited — misdemeanor | - |
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §251.1 | CA Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| Nuisance Animals | Attracting may be cited | - |
| Bird Feeding | Generally permitted | - |
| Enforcement | County Animal Services / CDFW | Code Compliance — 619-441-1726 |
| City Code | - | ECMC Title 1 Ch. 1.36 — nuisance |
| Coyotes | - | Do not feed — attracts to neighborhoods |
| Vector Control | - | SD County — 858-694-2888 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bonsall FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in San Diego County?
Yes. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under both County regulations and California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1. Violators face misdemeanor charges and fines.
Can I feed birds in my yard?
Bird feeding is generally permitted, but feeders should be managed to avoid attracting nuisance wildlife like raccoons, rats, or bears. Clean up spilled seed regularly.
What should I do if wildlife is on my property?
Do not feed or approach wildlife. Secure trash cans, remove pet food, and eliminate attractants. Contact County Animal Services for nuisance wildlife issues or CDFW for protected species.
El Cajon FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in El Cajon?
Yes. California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1 prohibits feeding big game mammals. Feeding coyotes also creates public safety hazards and may violate the city's nuisance ordinance.
Can I be fined for leaving pet food outside in El Cajon?
If outdoor pet food attracts nuisance wildlife or rodents, Code Compliance can cite the property under the city's nuisance abatement provisions in ECMC Title 1 Chapter 1.36.
Who handles wildlife complaints in El Cajon?
San Diego County Department of Animal Services handles wildlife complaints at 619-767-2675. For rodent and vector issues, contact San Diego County Vector Control at 858-694-2888.
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