Wildlife Feeding: El Cerrito vs Martinez
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Martinez, CA?
El Cerrito has fewer restrictions than Martinez.
El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Wildlife in unincorporated Contra Costa County is regulated primarily by California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). It is illegal to feed deer, coyotes, raccoons, or wild turkeys. Depredation permits are required to remove protected wildlife damaging property.
View full El Cerrito rules →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Wildlife in Martinez is protected under California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations — feeding deer, coyotes, raccoons, turkeys, and other wildlife is prohibited and can result in fines. Injured wildlife should be reported to CDFW or Lindsay Wildlife Experience. The John Muir historic buffer and Alhambra Creek corridor host protected species requiring special consideration for landscaping and development.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Authority | CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife | - |
| Feeding Ban | Fish & Game Code §251.1 | - |
| Mountain Lions | Specially Protected Species | - |
| Depredation Permits | Issued by CDFW | - |
| Local Response | CCC Animal Services for injured wildlife | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cerrito FAQ
Can I trap and relocate a raccoon from my yard?
Under CDFW regulations it is unlawful to relocate most furbearing or non-game mammals. Licensed Wildlife Control Operators may trap and euthanize, or non-lethally exclude the animal.
What should I do about coyotes near Blackhawk?
Follow CDFW hazing guidance — make loud noises, never feed, secure garbage and pet food. Call the Sheriff or CDFW only for aggressive or injured animals that present a public-safety risk.
Martinez FAQ
Compare other topics
See how El Cerrito and Martinez compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool