Wildlife Feeding: Bonsall vs San Marcos
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Bonsall, CA and San Marcos, CA?
Bonsall and San Marcos 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 →San Marcos, CA
San Diego County
San Marcos prohibits the intentional feeding of coyotes and other predatory wildlife. Residents must secure trash, pet food, and other attractants to minimize wildlife encounters. The city is home to coyotes, raccoons, and other urban wildlife, and feeding these animals creates public safety hazards and encourages habituation to residential areas.
View full San Marcos rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bonsall | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited — misdemeanor | Prohibited |
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §251.1 | - |
| Nuisance Animals | Attracting may be cited | - |
| Bird Feeding | Generally permitted | - |
| Enforcement | County Animal Services / CDFW | - |
| Trash Storage | - | Secure containers with lids required |
| Pet Food | - | Do not leave outdoors overnight |
| Wildlife Emergencies | - | Sheriff (760) 510-5200 |
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.
San Marcos FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in San Marcos?
Yes. Intentionally feeding coyotes and other predatory wildlife is prohibited. This includes leaving food out that is known to attract them.
What should I do if I see a coyote in my neighborhood?
Do not approach or feed the animal. Make loud noises to scare it away. Report frequent sightings to San Marcos Code Enforcement or the San Diego County coyote tracking program.
Can I feed feral cats in San Marcos?
Feral cat feeding should follow San Diego County trap-neuter-return guidelines. Unmanaged feeding stations that attract wildlife may be subject to code enforcement action.
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