Wildlife Feeding: Costa Mesa vs Orange
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Orange, CA?
Costa Mesa and Orange 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 →Orange, CA
Orange County
The City of Orange discourages feeding wildlife through nuisance and public health provisions in OMC Title 6 and Title 8. Feeding wildlife that attracts rodents, coyotes, or other nuisance animals can result in code enforcement action.
View full Orange rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited | Creates public safety risk |
| 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 | - |
| Wildlife Feeding | - | Discouraged; nuisance risk |
| Enforcement | - | Nuisance-based complaints |
| Code Reference | - | OMC Title 8 Nuisance |
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.
Orange FAQ
Is it illegal to feed wild animals in Orange?
There is no standalone ban, but feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance condition (attracting rodents, coyotes) can result in code enforcement action under public nuisance provisions.
What should I do about coyotes in my neighborhood?
Do not feed coyotes or leave pet food outdoors. Contact OC Animal Care for guidance on coyote management and hazing techniques.
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