Wildlife Feeding: El Cerrito vs Walnut Creek
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Walnut Creek, CA?
Walnut Creek has fewer restrictions than El Cerrito.
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 →Walnut Creek, CA
Contra Costa County
Walnut Creek residents regularly encounter deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and the occasional mountain lion due to the city's proximity to Mount Diablo State Park and extensive open space; feeding wildlife is prohibited and problem animals are handled by California Department of Fish & Wildlife, not the city.
View full Walnut Creek rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Walnut Creek |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Feeding wildlife | - | Prohibited by city code |
| Deer depredation | - | CDFW permit required |
| Mountain lions | - | Protected under Prop 117 |
| Rehabilitation center | - | Lindsay Wildlife Experience |
| Common wildlife | - | Deer, turkeys, coyotes, raccoons |
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.
Walnut Creek FAQ
Can I feed the deer in my Walnut Creek backyard?
No. Intentional feeding of deer and other wildlife is prohibited and can draw administrative fines. Feeding habituates animals to human areas and increases conflict with neighbors and pets.
What do I do about a coyote in my neighborhood?
Use hazing techniques (loud noises, eye contact, throwing objects) to reinforce fear of humans. Secure trash and pet food, and keep small pets indoors at dawn/dusk. Call CDFW if a coyote shows aggressive behavior toward people.
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