Wildlife Feeding: Lincoln vs Rocklin
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Lincoln, CA and Rocklin, CA?
Rocklin has fewer restrictions than Lincoln.
Lincoln, CA
Placer County
California Code of Regulations Title 14 §251.3 makes it unlawful to knowingly feed big game mammals, including black bears, deer, and mountain lions, in any part of the state - including Lincoln - and Lincoln Municipal Code Title 6 backs the prohibition with local nuisance authority.
View full Lincoln rules →Rocklin, CA
Placer County
Rocklin does not have an express municipal-code section banning the feeding of wildlife, but California state law effectively prohibits the practice. Under California Code of Regulations Title 14, § 251.1 (Harassment of Animals), feeding game and nongame mammals or birds in a manner that disrupts their normal breeding, feeding, or sheltering patterns constitutes prohibited harassment. Intentional feeding of deer, bears, coyotes, raccoons, and other wildlife can result in fines up to $1,000. Rocklin Mun. Code Title 8 nuisance provisions also apply to feeding that creates rodent or odor problems.
View full Rocklin rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lincoln | Rocklin |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide rule | 14 CCR §251.3 | - |
| Covered species | Bears, deer, elk, mountain lions, antelope, wild pigs | - |
| Bird/squirrel feeders | Allowed unless attracting big game | - |
| Enforcement | CDFW wardens + Placer County Animal Services | - |
| CalTIP wildlife hotline | 1-888-334-2258 | - |
| State rule | - | 14 CCR § 251.1 - harassment includes disrupting normal feeding patterns |
| Maximum state fine | - | Up to $1,000 per violation |
| Most-cited species | - | Deer, bears, coyotes, raccoons, wild turkeys |
| Local rule | - | Rocklin Mun. Code Title 8 nuisance provisions for attractants creating rodent/pest problems |
| Allowed | - | Songbird feeders (with reasonable maintenance to avoid attracting rodents/bears) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lincoln FAQ
Is it illegal to feed deer in my backyard?
Yes. 14 CCR §251.3 makes it unlawful to knowingly feed big game mammals - including deer - anywhere in California. The Lincoln/Placer County area is no exception.
Can I still put out a bird feeder?
Yes, bird feeders are not prohibited. But if a feeder begins attracting bears, deer, or other big game, CDFW or city code enforcement can require its removal as an indirect violation of §251.3 and the local public-nuisance code in Title 8.
What about feral cats or raccoons?
Feeding feral cats or raccoons is not covered by §251.3 but can be abated as a public nuisance under Lincoln Municipal Code Title 8 if it causes rodent infestations, odor, or health hazards.
Rocklin FAQ
Is it illegal to feed deer in my Rocklin yard?
Yes. Under 14 CCR § 251.1, intentional feeding of deer is considered harassment because it disrupts their normal feeding behavior. CDFW can issue citations with fines up to $1,000.
What about feeding squirrels and birds?
Songbird feeders are generally not enforced against. Squirrel and waterfowl feeding can run into trouble if it creates a nuisance (rodent attractants, fecal accumulation) under Rocklin Mun. Code Title 8.
Can I leave pet food outside?
Doing so is a frequent vector for citations because it attracts raccoons, coyotes, and bears. CDFW treats sustained outdoor pet-food feeding stations as wildlife feeding, and Rocklin Code Enforcement can abate the condition as a nuisance.
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