Wildlife Feeding: El Cajon vs San Marcos
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between El Cajon, CA and San Marcos, CA?
El Cajon and San Marcos have similar restriction levels.
El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
El Cajon addresses wildlife feeding through its nuisance provisions and San Diego County regulations. Feeding wildlife such as coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1. The city's Code Compliance division enforces property conditions that attract nuisance wildlife.
View full El Cajon rules →San Marcos, CA
San Diego County
San Marcos prohibits the intentional feeding of coyotes and other predatory wildlife. Residents must secure trash, pet food, and other attractants to minimize wildlife encounters. The city is home to coyotes, raccoons, and other urban wildlife, and feeding these animals creates public safety hazards and encourages habituation to residential areas.
View full San Marcos rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cajon | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §251.1 | - |
| City Code | ECMC Title 1 Ch. 1.36 — nuisance | - |
| Coyotes | Do not feed — attracts to neighborhoods | - |
| Enforcement | Code Compliance — 619-441-1726 | - |
| Vector Control | SD County — 858-694-2888 | - |
| Coyote Feeding | - | Prohibited |
| Trash Storage | - | Secure containers with lids required |
| Pet Food | - | Do not leave outdoors overnight |
| Wildlife Emergencies | - | Sheriff (760) 510-5200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cajon FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in El Cajon?
Yes. California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1 prohibits feeding big game mammals. Feeding coyotes also creates public safety hazards and may violate the city's nuisance ordinance.
Can I be fined for leaving pet food outside in El Cajon?
If outdoor pet food attracts nuisance wildlife or rodents, Code Compliance can cite the property under the city's nuisance abatement provisions in ECMC Title 1 Chapter 1.36.
Who handles wildlife complaints in El Cajon?
San Diego County Department of Animal Services handles wildlife complaints at 619-767-2675. For rodent and vector issues, contact San Diego County Vector Control at 858-694-2888.
San Marcos FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in San Marcos?
Yes. Intentionally feeding coyotes and other predatory wildlife is prohibited. This includes leaving food out that is known to attract them.
What should I do if I see a coyote in my neighborhood?
Do not approach or feed the animal. Make loud noises to scare it away. Report frequent sightings to San Marcos Code Enforcement or the San Diego County coyote tracking program.
Can I feed feral cats in San Marcos?
Feral cat feeding should follow San Diego County trap-neuter-return guidelines. Unmanaged feeding stations that attract wildlife may be subject to code enforcement action.
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