Wildlife Feeding: Los Angeles vs Topanga
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Topanga, CA?
Los Angeles and Topanga 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 →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
Feeding wildlife in unincorporated LA County is discouraged and may violate nuisance provisions. CDFW regulations prohibit feeding certain species. The county's large unincorporated areas include wildlife corridors where feeding attracts coyotes, bears, and mountain lions near communities like Altadena and Topanga.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Feeding coyotes, bears, mountain lions | - |
| Code Section | LAMC 53.06.5 | - |
| Purpose | Prevent habituation to humans | - |
| Enforcement | LA Animal Services, CDFW | - |
| Policy | - | Discouraged, may be nuisance |
| Coyotes | - | County actively discourages feeding |
| Wildlife Areas | - | Altadena, Topanga, mountain communities |
| State Law | - | CDFW regulates wildlife interactions |
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.
Topanga FAQ
Is it illegal to feed wildlife in LA County?
Feeding coyotes is specifically prohibited by county ordinance. Feeding other wildlife is discouraged and may trigger nuisance complaints. Feeding protected species can violate state Fish & Wildlife regulations.
Can I feed feral cats in unincorporated LA County?
While not specifically banned, feeding feral cats can create nuisance conditions (attracting rodents, coyotes) that violate county nuisance ordinances. Many communities have trap-neuter-return programs as an alternative.
Who do I contact about nuisance wildlife?
Contact the LA County Agricultural Commissioner at (626) 575-5471 for wildlife issues. For coyote sightings, contact LA County Animal Care & Control at (562) 728-4610.
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