Wildlife Feeding: Fullerton vs Irvine
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Irvine, CA?
Fullerton and Irvine have similar restriction levels.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton Municipal Code and Orange County Health Care Agency guidelines prohibit feeding wildlife in ways that attract coyotes, raccoons, or other nuisance animals. Residents must secure trash in animal-proof containers, avoid leaving pet food outdoors, and refrain from intentionally feeding wild animals including feral cats on public property. The Fullerton Police Department non-emergency line handles wildlife complaints.
View full Fullerton rules →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine discourages wildlife feeding that creates nuisance conditions. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1. The city actively manages urban wildlife conflicts through its Animal Services program.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited under state and local law | Prohibited (state law) |
| Pet Food | Must not be left outdoors overnight | - |
| Trash Containers | Must have secure, animal-proof lids | - |
| Wildlife Complaints | Fullerton PD non-emergency (714) 738-6800 | - |
| State Code | - | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| Fine (Coyotes) | - | Up to $1,000 |
| Animal Services | - | (949) 724-7740 |
| Nuisance Feeding | - | Enforceable under city code |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Fullerton?
Yes. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1 and Fullerton's nuisance provisions. Intentional feeding can result in fines up to $1,000 under state law and administrative citations from the city.
Can I feed feral cats in Fullerton?
Feeding feral cats on private property is generally tolerated if it does not create unsanitary conditions or attract predators. Feeding feral cats on public property may be subject to code enforcement if it causes nuisance conditions. Managed TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs are encouraged through local rescue organizations.
Who do I call about a coyote in my Fullerton neighborhood?
For non-emergency coyote sightings, contact Fullerton Police Department at (714) 738-6800. For aggressive coyote encounters, call 911. OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 handles injured or trapped wildlife.
Irvine FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Irvine?
Yes. Feeding coyotes is a misdemeanor under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1, punishable by fines up to $1,000.
What should I do about coyotes in my neighborhood?
Do not feed them, secure trash, keep pets indoors at night, and report aggressive coyote behavior to Irvine Animal Services at (949) 724-7740.
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