Wildlife Feeding: Irvine vs Santa Ana
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Irvine, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Irvine and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
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 →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 | Irvine | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited (state law) | Prohibited (state law) |
| State Code | Fish & Game Code §251.1 | Fish & Game Code §251.1 |
| Fine (Coyotes) | Up to $1,000 | Up to $1,000 |
| Animal Services | (949) 724-7740 | - |
| Nuisance Feeding | Enforceable under city code | - |
| Pigeon Feeding | - | Enforceable as nuisance |
| City Code | - | SAMC Ch. 18 nuisance provisions |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
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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