Wildlife Feeding: Costa Mesa vs Huntington Beach
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach 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 →Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Feeding coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1. Huntington Beach enforces nuisance provisions for wildlife feeding that attracts pests or creates health hazards. The city manages urban wildlife through its Animal Control program.
View full Huntington Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited | Prohibited (state 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 | - |
| Fine (Coyotes) | - | Up to $1,000 |
| State Law | - | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| Nuisance Feeding | - | Enforceable under HBMC 17.10 |
| Reporting | - | Animal Control (714) 960-8860 |
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.
Huntington Beach FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Huntington Beach?
Yes. Feeding coyotes is a misdemeanor under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1, punishable by fines up to $1,000.
Can I feed birds at the beach?
Feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance condition is enforceable. Beach regulations under HBMC may also restrict feeding in certain areas.
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