Wildlife Feeding: Costa Mesa vs Fullerton
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Fullerton, CA?
Costa Mesa and Fullerton have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa prohibits or discourages feeding wildlife including coyotes, feral cats, and pigeons in public areas. Residents must secure trash to prevent wildlife encounters. The city works with OC Animal Care on coyote management programs.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton Municipal Code and Orange County Health Care Agency guidelines prohibit feeding wildlife in ways that attract coyotes, raccoons, or other nuisance animals. Residents must secure trash in animal-proof containers, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and refrain from intentionally feeding wild animals including feral cats on public property. The Fullerton Police Department non-emergency line handles wildlife complaints.
View full Fullerton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Fullerton |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited | Prohibited under state and local law |
| Wildlife Areas | Talbert, Upper Newport Bay, Fairview | - |
| Feral Cats | TNR programs may be coordinated | - |
| Trash | Must be secured from wildlife | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Pet Food | - | Must not be left outdoors overnight |
| Trash Containers | - | Must have secure, animal-proof lids |
| Wildlife Complaints | - | Fullerton PD non-emergency (714) 738-6800 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Costa Mesa?
Yes. Deliberately feeding coyotes is prohibited in Costa Mesa and creates public safety hazards for residents and pets.
What do I do about coyotes in my Costa Mesa neighborhood?
Do not feed them, secure trash, keep pet food indoors, and supervise small pets outdoors. Report aggressive coyotes to OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848.
Can I feed feral cats in Costa Mesa?
Feeding feral cats on public property may be restricted. Managed TNR programs should be coordinated through OC Animal Care.
Fullerton FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Fullerton?
Yes. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1 and Fullerton's nuisance provisions. Intentional feeding can result in fines up to $1,000 under state law and administrative citations from the city.
Can I feed feral cats in Fullerton?
Feeding feral cats on private property is generally tolerated if it does not create unsanitary conditions or attract predators. Feeding feral cats on public property may be subject to code enforcement if it causes nuisance conditions. Managed TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs are encouraged through local rescue organizations.
Who do I call about a coyote in my Fullerton neighborhood?
For non-emergency coyote sightings, contact Fullerton Police Department at (714) 738-6800. For aggressive coyote encounters, call 911. OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 handles injured or trapped wildlife.
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