Wildlife Feeding: Jurupa Valley vs Riverside

Is it legal to feed deer in Jurupa Valley?

No. California 14 CCR §251.3 prohibits intentional feeding of deer and other big-game mammals statewide, with no Jurupa Valley exception. Citations are issued by CDFW wardens.

Can I feed coyotes that come through my yard?

Strongly discouraged and likely a Jurupa Valley Title 10/Title 8 nuisance violation. CDFW warns that coyote feeding produces habituation and aggression, and Jurupa Valley code enforcement can order the food source removed.

What do I do about a coyote or mountain lion in my neighborhood?

Secure trash and pet food, do not feed wildlife, and report aggressive behavior to Riverside County Department of Animal Services (951-358-7387). For mountain lions specifically, report to CDFW — these animals cannot be killed except under a CDFW depredation permit under Cal. Fish & Game Code §4800.

Can I be fined for feeding squirrels or birds in Riverside?

Feeding songbirds at a properly maintained backyard feeder is generally tolerated, but feeding ground squirrels, tree squirrels, or other wildlife that begin to act habituated has been prosecuted under Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14 §251.1 with fines up to $1,000. The trigger is whether your feeding disrupts the animal's natural foraging — feeders that draw wildlife close to homes are more likely to be cited.

Is leaving cat food outside illegal in Riverside?

If the food is accessed by coyotes, raccoons, opossums, or skunks — which is nearly always the case overnight — Riverside Public Works treats it as accidental wildlife feeding in violation of state law and the City's nuisance code. Outdoor feeding stations for pets should be brought inside at night, and unsecured pet food bags can also be cited as a vector-attracting nuisance.

What about deer in the Santa Ana River corridor or hillsides?

Deer are 'game mammals' under California Fish and Game Code, and feeding them is squarely within Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14 §251.1. CDFW wardens enforce statewide; the City's Public Works Department refers feeding complaints in the river corridor and Sycamore Canyon area to CDFW and RCDAS.