Wildlife Feeding: Costa Mesa vs Newport Beach
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Newport Beach.
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 →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach strictly prohibits feeding wildlife including coyotes, waterfowl, pigeons, and other wild animals on public or private property. The ban protects coastal habitats and reduces human-wildlife conflicts in neighborhoods adjacent to Upper Newport Bay and other natural areas throughout the city.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Feeding Ban | - | All wildlife on public/private land |
| Code Section | - | NBMC 7.04.060 |
| First Offense | - | $100 fine |
| Enforcement | - | Animal Control and Code Enforcement |
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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I feed ducks at the Newport Beach harbor or Back Bay?
No. Newport Beach prohibits feeding all wildlife including ducks, geese, and other waterfowl on all public and private property. The ban applies to parks, beaches, harbor areas, and the Back Bay nature preserve.
What should I do about coyotes in my Newport Beach neighborhood?
Do not feed or approach coyotes. Secure trash cans, remove pet food and fallen fruit from outdoors, and report aggressive coyote behavior to Animal Control at (949) 644-3717.
Are there exceptions for bird feeders on private property?
Small songbird feeders on private property are generally tolerated but feeding larger wildlife like coyotes, pigeons, or waterfowl remains prohibited. If feeders attract nuisance wildlife, code enforcement may require removal.
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