Bird Protection: Los Angeles vs San Francisco
How do bird protection rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA?
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles protects wild birds under LAMC §53.55 and emerging bird-safe building design guidance, layered atop California Fish and Game Code §3500-3516 and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Native species, raptors, and active nests cannot be harmed or removed.
View full Los Angeles rules →San Francisco, CA
San Francisco County
No data available yet for San Francisco.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| City code | LAMC §53.55 | - |
| State law | Fish and Game Code §3503-3516 | - |
| Federal law | Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 USC §703) | - |
| Nest removal | CDFW depredation permit required | - |
| MBTA penalty | Up to $15,000 per bird | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I remove a nest from my eaves?
Not while it is active with eggs or chicks. Wait until it is empty and confirmed abandoned, or apply for a CDFW depredation permit. Most native songbirds are federally protected under the MBTA.
Are pigeons protected?
Rock pigeons, European starlings, and house sparrows are non-native and not protected by the MBTA. They can be controlled, but humane methods and LA Animal Services guidance still apply citywide.
San Francisco FAQ
No FAQs available.
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