Wildlife Feeding: El Cerrito vs Pittsburg
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Pittsburg, CA?
El Cerrito and Pittsburg have similar restriction levels.
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 →Pittsburg, CA
Contra Costa County
Pittsburg residents encounter coyotes, raccoons, skunks, deer, and waterfowl along the Delta shoreline. Feeding wildlife is prohibited under PMC nuisance provisions, and injured or problem wildlife is handled by Contra Costa Animal Services or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
View full Pittsburg rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Pittsburg |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Common wildlife | - | Coyotes, raccoons, deer, waterfowl |
| Feeding wildlife | - | Prohibited |
| Authority over wildlife | - | CDFW |
| Rehab referral | - | Lindsay Wildlife Experience |
| Migratory birds | - | Federally protected |
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.
Pittsburg FAQ
What do I do about a coyote in my neighborhood?
Do not feed it. Haze it by making loud noises and appearing large. Report repeated aggressive behavior to CDFW or Contra Costa Animal Services. Keep small pets supervised.
Is it legal to feed ducks at Pittsburg Marina?
Feeding bread to waterfowl is discouraged and can be cited as a nuisance. Bread harms duck health and concentrates droppings that impair water quality.
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