Coyote Management: Denver vs Phoenix
How do coyote management rules compare between Denver, CO and Phoenix, AZ?
Denver and Phoenix have similar restriction levels.
Denver, CO
Denver County
Denver Parks & Recreation and Colorado Parks & Wildlife share urban coyote response. Denver promotes hazing under its Urban Wildlife Plan; lethal removal is reserved for aggressive animals. Feeding wildlife is prohibited under DRMC chapter 8.
View full Denver rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix follows a coexistence model for urban coyotes through MCACC and Arizona Game and Fish. Residents are urged to haze coyotes, secure food sources, and protect small pets. Feeding coyotes or any wildlife is prohibited under nuisance and wildlife rules.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denver | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Lead agencies | Denver Parks plus CPW | - |
| Default response | Hazing and education | - |
| Feeding wildlife | Prohibited DRMC 8 | Prohibited |
| Lethal removal | Aggressive animals only | - |
| State agency | - | Arizona Game and Fish |
| City contact | - | Maricopa County MCACC |
| Recommended response | - | Haze, do not approach |
| Pet protection | - | Leash and supervise outdoors |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denver FAQ
Can I shoot a coyote attacking my Denver pet?
Generally no inside Denver city limits. Firearms are barred in most of the city. Colorado law allows lethal protection of livestock but coyote response in Denver is handled by CPW and Denver Animal Protection.
What should I do if I see a coyote in my Denver yard?
Haze it loudly: yell, clap, throw small objects without harming it. Bring pets inside and secure trash. Report aggressive or daytime-bold coyotes to 311 and CPW dispatch immediately.
Phoenix FAQ
Will the city remove coyotes from my neighborhood?
Generally no. AZGFD and MCACC only respond to sick, injured, or genuinely aggressive coyotes. Healthy coyotes are part of the desert ecosystem and are managed through hazing, attractant removal, and resident education.
How do I keep my dog or cat safe?
Keep cats indoors, walk small dogs on short leashes, never leave pets outside unsupervised at dawn or dusk, and secure six-foot or taller fences. Remove pet food, fallen fruit, and water bowls from the yard.
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