Wildlife Feeding: Brentwood vs El Cerrito
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Brentwood, CA and El Cerrito, CA?
Brentwood and El Cerrito have similar restriction levels.
Brentwood, CA
Contra Costa County
Wildlife in Brentwood (deer, coyotes, turkeys, raccoons, hawks, and mountain lions in nearby Los Vaqueros Watershed) is protected under state law and managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Feeding wildlife is prohibited, and most species cannot be trapped or relocated without a CDFW depredation permit.
View full Brentwood rules →El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Wildlife in unincorporated Contra Costa County is regulated primarily by California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). It is illegal to feed deer, coyotes, raccoons, or wild turkeys. Depredation permits are required to remove protected wildlife damaging property.
View full El Cerrito rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | El Cerrito |
|---|---|---|
| Agency | CDFW | - |
| Feeding wildlife | Prohibited | - |
| Trapping | Requires CDFW permit | - |
| Rehabilitation | Lindsay Wildlife Experience | - |
| Protected birds | Migratory Bird Treaty Act | - |
| Primary Authority | - | CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife |
| Feeding Ban | - | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| Mountain Lions | - | Specially Protected Species |
| Depredation Permits | - | Issued by CDFW |
| Local Response | - | CCC Animal Services for injured wildlife |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brentwood FAQ
Can I trap a raccoon in my yard?
Not without a CDFW permit. It's generally illegal to relocate wildlife in California. You may exclude animals with barriers, or hire a licensed wildlife trapper who will typically euthanize rather than relocate trapped animals, per state law.
What if I see a coyote?
Do not run. Make yourself look large, yell, and throw objects toward (not at) the animal to haze it. Report aggressive coyotes to Brentwood PD and CDFW. Keep pets leashed and small pets indoors at dawn/dusk.
El Cerrito FAQ
Can I trap and relocate a raccoon from my yard?
Under CDFW regulations it is unlawful to relocate most furbearing or non-game mammals. Licensed Wildlife Control Operators may trap and euthanize, or non-lethally exclude the animal.
What should I do about coyotes near Blackhawk?
Follow CDFW hazing guidance — make loud noises, never feed, secure garbage and pet food. Call the Sheriff or CDFW only for aggressive or injured animals that present a public-safety risk.
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