Wildlife Feeding: Fallbrook vs San Diego
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Fallbrook, CA and San Diego, CA?
Fallbrook and San Diego have similar restriction levels.
Fallbrook, CA
San Diego County
San Diego County discourages feeding wildlife in unincorporated areas. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under County Code. Attracting nuisance wildlife through feeding can be cited under nuisance abatement provisions. California law also restricts feeding certain species.
View full Fallbrook rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
Feeding wildlife in San Diego is discouraged and may be cited as a nuisance. It is illegal to feed or care for stray animals without notifying authorities. California Fish and Game Code protections apply to native wildlife. The City's urban-wildland interface with canyons creates frequent wildlife encounters with coyotes, raccoons, and raptors. Handling wild animals without proper permits is prohibited.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fallbrook | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited — misdemeanor | - |
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §251.1 | CA Fish and Game Code wildlife protections |
| Nuisance Animals | Attracting may be cited | - |
| Bird Feeding | Generally permitted | - |
| Enforcement | County Animal Services / CDFW | - |
| Policy | - | Feeding wildlife discouraged; may constitute nuisance |
| Stray Animals | - | Must notify authorities before feeding/caring |
| Wildlife Handling | - | Prohibited without state permits |
| Coyotes | - | Active management in canyon-adjacent neighborhoods |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fallbrook FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in San Diego County?
Yes. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under both County regulations and California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1. Violators face misdemeanor charges and fines.
Can I feed birds in my yard?
Bird feeding is generally permitted, but feeders should be managed to avoid attracting nuisance wildlife like raccoons, rats, or bears. Clean up spilled seed regularly.
What should I do if wildlife is on my property?
Do not feed or approach wildlife. Secure trash cans, remove pet food, and eliminate attractants. Contact County Animal Services for nuisance wildlife issues or CDFW for protected species.
San Diego FAQ
Is it legal to feed birds in my yard?
Feeding songbirds in your yard is generally allowed, but feeding wildlife that creates a public nuisance (attracting coyotes, raccoons, etc.) can result in code enforcement action.
What should I do about injured wildlife?
Contact the San Diego Humane Society's Project Wildlife at 619-299-7012 or a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center. Do not attempt to handle wild animals yourself.
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