Wildlife Feeding: Costa Mesa vs Midway City
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Midway City, CA?
Costa Mesa and Midway City 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 →Midway City, CA
Orange County
California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1 prohibits feeding wildlife as a form of harassment. While unincorporated Orange County does not have a standalone wildlife feeding ordinance, feeding coyotes and other predators may violate state law and OCCO animal nuisance provisions.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited | - |
| 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 Law | - | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| County Ban | - | No standalone ordinance |
| State Prohibition | - | Feeding = harassment |
| Report Issues | - | OC Animal Care |
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.
Midway City FAQ
Is it illegal to feed wildlife in unincorporated Orange County?
Yes, under state law. California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1 prohibits feeding wildlife as a form of harassment. While the county lacks a standalone ordinance, the state law applies throughout unincorporated areas.
Who do I contact about wildlife feeding issues in unincorporated OC?
Contact OC Animal Care for domestic animal issues or the OC Agricultural Commissioner at (714) 955-0100 for wildlife on county property. For ongoing nuisance issues, call Neighborhood Preservation at 714-667-8853.
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