Wildlife Feeding: Brentwood vs Oakley
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Brentwood, CA and Oakley, CA?
Brentwood has fewer restrictions than Oakley.
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 →Oakley, CA
Contra Costa County
Wildlife in Oakley, including the Delta's sensitive species, is protected under California Fish and Game Code. Feeding wildlife, disturbing waterfowl at Big Break, and removing native species without permits are prohibited, with additional protections for endangered species like giant garter snake and Chinook salmon.
View full Oakley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | Oakley |
|---|---|---|
| Agency | CDFW | - |
| Feeding wildlife | Prohibited | Prohibited in parks |
| Trapping | Requires CDFW permit | - |
| Rehabilitation | Lindsay Wildlife Experience | - |
| Protected birds | Migratory Bird Treaty Act | - |
| State law | - | CA Fish & Game Code 2000+ |
| Federal law | - | Migratory Bird Treaty Act |
| Delta species | - | Smelt, salmon, garter snake |
| Rehab contact | - | Lindsay Wildlife Experience |
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.
Oakley FAQ
Can I trap a raccoon living in my attic?
Only if you have a CDFW depredation permit or use a licensed wildlife control operator. DIY relocation without a permit is illegal.
Is it illegal to feed ducks at Big Break?
Yes. Feeding wildlife in Oakley parks and in EBRPD parks is prohibited. Bread in particular harms waterfowl and degrades water quality.
What do I do about a coyote in my yard?
Make yourself large, make noise, and it will usually leave. Remove attractants like pet food and unsecured trash. Report aggressive coyotes to CDFW.
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