Wildlife Feeding: Fontana vs Rialto
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Fontana, CA and Rialto, CA?
Fontana and Rialto have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana prohibits feeding wild animals under Chapter 18 nuisance rules and Chapter 4 animal provisions. Feeding coyotes, raccoons, and skunks draws them into yards and is treated as a nuisance even without a named wildlife-feeding ordinance.
View full Fontana rules →Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
Rialto has no standalone municipal ordinance banning wildlife feeding, but feeding deer, coyotes, raccoons and other wild mammals is regulated statewide under California Fish & Game Code § 251.1 (harassment) and 14 CCR § 251.3, which prohibits intentionally feeding big game mammals. Attracting wildlife that becomes a public nuisance is independently abatable under Rialto Municipal Code Title 6 / Title 8 (Health & Sanitation).
View full Rialto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Rialto |
|---|---|---|
| Code | FMC Chapter 18 and Chapter 4 | - |
| Targeted Species | Coyotes, raccoons, skunks, bears, deer | - |
| Common Attractants | Trash, pet food, fallen fruit | - |
| Bird Feeders | Generally allowed | - |
| Report | Animal Services (909) 350-7651 | CDFW 1-888-334-CALTIP |
| State rule | - | 14 CCR § 251.3 (no feeding big-game mammals) |
| Harassment | - | Cal. F&G Code § 251.1 |
| Local hook | - | RMC Title 6 / Title 8 nuisance abatement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Can I put out food for stray cats?
This can cross into a nuisance if it draws wildlife or increases cat populations. Check with Animal Services about TNR programs instead.
Are squirrel feeders okay?
Usually, but not if the feeder is also drawing raccoons or rats. A feeder that causes a rodent nuisance becomes a Chapter 18 issue.
Rialto FAQ
Can I feed the coyotes / raccoons in my Rialto yard?
No. Intentionally feeding big-game mammals violates 14 CCR § 251.3, and feeding coyotes/raccoons food-conditions them into a public-safety hazard that Rialto can abate as a nuisance under Title 6 / Title 8.
Are bird feeders allowed?
Yes, bird feeders are not prohibited, but if your feeder attracts rats, pigeons or larger wildlife it can be cited as a nuisance under Rialto's health and sanitation rules. Use squirrel/rodent-proof feeders and clean spillage daily.
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