Wildlife Feeding: Costa Mesa vs Irvine
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Irvine, CA?
Costa Mesa and Irvine 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 →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine discourages wildlife feeding that creates nuisance conditions. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1. The city actively manages urban wildlife conflicts through its Animal Services program.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State Code | - | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| Fine (Coyotes) | - | Up to $1,000 |
| Animal Services | - | (949) 724-7740 |
| Nuisance Feeding | - | Enforceable under city code |
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.
Irvine FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Irvine?
Yes. Feeding coyotes is a misdemeanor under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1, punishable by fines up to $1,000.
What should I do about coyotes in my neighborhood?
Do not feed them, secure trash, keep pets indoors at night, and report aggressive coyote behavior to Irvine Animal Services at (949) 724-7740.
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