Coyote Management: Los Angeles vs New York
How do coyote management rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and New York, NY?
Los Angeles and New York have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles follows a coexistence policy: residents are expected to haze coyotes and remove attractants. LAMC §53.06.5 makes it unlawful to feed wildlife, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife rules forbid relocation or trapping of healthy coyotes that have not threatened public safety.
View full Los Angeles rules →New York, NY
New York County
New York City Parks and DOHMH manage a small but growing coyote population through coexistence rather than removal. Residents are told to haze, secure trash, and never feed wildlife. NYS DEC bars relocation of healthy coyotes under Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 180.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Feeding ban | LAMC §53.06.5 | Health Code §161 |
| Default response | Hazing and attractant removal | - |
| Relocation rule | Prohibited for healthy coyotes | Prohibited for healthy coyotes |
| State authority | California Fish and Wildlife | NYS DEC |
| Permit pathway | CDFW depredation permit only | DEC nuisance wildlife operator |
| Lead agency | - | NYC Parks Wildlife Unit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I trap a coyote in my yard?
No, not on your own. Healthy coyotes cannot be trapped or relocated under California Fish and Game rules. A licensed trapper acting under a CDFW depredation permit may remove a specific aggressive animal.
What should I do if a coyote enters my yard?
Haze it: shout, wave arms, bang pots, or spray a hose. Bring small pets indoors, secure trash and fruit, and report aggressive behavior to LA Animal Services so a depredation review can begin.
New York FAQ
I saw a coyote in my neighborhood — should I call 911?
Only if it is acting aggressively or injured. Otherwise call 311 to log a sighting. NYC Parks tracks reports and provides hazing guidance; healthy coyotes are not relocated under DEC policy.
Can a private trapper remove a coyote from my yard?
Only a licensed nuisance wildlife control operator with a DEC permit may handle coyotes, and only when the specific animal is documented as aggressive. Routine removal of healthy coyotes is prohibited statewide.
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