Wildlife Feeding: Fullerton vs Santa Ana
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Fullerton and Santa Ana 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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana discourages the feeding of wildlife including coyotes, pigeons, and other non-domestic animals on public and private property. Feeding wildlife that creates a nuisance or attracts vermin is enforceable under SAMC nuisance abatement provisions in Chapter 18 (Health and Sanitation).
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Pigeon Feeding | - | Enforceable as nuisance |
| State Code | - | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| City Code | - | SAMC Ch. 18 nuisance provisions |
| Fine (Coyotes) | - | Up to $1,000 |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Santa Ana?
Yes. Under California Fish and Game Code Section 251.1, feeding coyotes is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $1,000.
Can I feed birds in my yard in Santa Ana?
Feeding songbirds is generally not prohibited, but feeding pigeons or other pest birds that creates a nuisance condition for neighbors may trigger code enforcement action under SAMC Chapter 18.
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