Wildlife Feeding: Costa Mesa vs Santa Ana
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Costa Mesa and Santa Ana 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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana discourages the feeding of wildlife including coyotes, pigeons, and other non-domestic animals on public and private property. Feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance or attracts vermin is enforceable under SAMC nuisance abatement provisions in Chapter 18 (Health and Sanitation).
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Pigeon Feeding | - | Enforceable as nuisance |
| State Code | - | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| City Code | - | SAMC Ch. 18 nuisance provisions |
| Fine (Coyotes) | - | Up to $1,000 |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Santa Ana?
Yes. Under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1, feeding coyotes is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $1,000.
Can I feed birds in my yard in Santa Ana?
Feeding songbirds is generally not prohibited, but feeding pigeons or other pest birds that creates a nuisance condition for neighbors may trigger code enforcement action under SAMC Chapter 18.
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