Los Angeles vs San Diego
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA?
Los Angeles and San Diego have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC 53.06.5 prohibits feeding non-domesticated mammalian predators including coyotes, bears, and mountain lions. Feeding creates public safety hazards by habituating wildlife to humans. Violations may result in fines. LA Animal Services and CA Department of Fish and Wildlife handle wildlife complaints.
View full Los Angeles rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
Feeding wildlife in San Diego is discouraged and may be cited as a nuisance. It is illegal to feed or care for stray animals without notifying authorities. California Fish and Game Code protections apply to native wildlife. The City's urban-wildland interface with canyons creates frequent wildlife encounters with coyotes, raccoons, and raptors. Handling wild animals without proper permits is prohibited.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Feeding coyotes, bears, mountain lions | - |
| Code Section | LAMC 53.06.5 | - |
| Purpose | Prevent habituation to humans | - |
| Enforcement | LA Animal Services, CDFW | - |
| Policy | - | Feeding wildlife discouraged; may constitute nuisance |
| Stray Animals | - | Must notify authorities before feeding/caring |
| Wildlife Handling | - | Prohibited without state permits |
| Coyotes | - | Active management in canyon-adjacent neighborhoods |
| State Law | - | CA Fish and Game Code wildlife protections |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I feed birds in my yard?
Generally yes, but Los Angeles may restrict bird feeders in areas with bear or other wildlife activity. Check local rules.
Is it illegal to feed stray cats?
Feral cat colony management rules vary in Los Angeles. Casual feeding may violate wildlife feeding ordinances.
San Diego FAQ
Is it legal to feed birds in my yard?
Feeding songbirds in your yard is generally allowed, but feeding wildlife that creates a public nuisance (attracting coyotes, raccoons, etc.) can result in code enforcement action.
What should I do about injured wildlife?
Contact the San Diego Humane Society's Project Wildlife at 619-299-7012 or a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center. Do not attempt to handle wild animals yourself.
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