Wildlife Feeding: Menifee vs Riverside

Is it illegal to feed deer in Menifee?

Yes — under CCR Title 14 §251.3 it is unlawful to intentionally feed deer, elk, bear, mountain lion, or wild pig anywhere in California, including Menifee.

Can I feed birds in my yard?

Yes, songbird feeding is generally permitted, but feeders that attract rodents or large numbers of pigeons may be cited as a nuisance under Title 11.

What about feeding coyotes?

Not specifically banned by state statute, but strongly discouraged by CDFW. Feeding that habituates coyotes can be cited as a nuisance and creates public-safety risk.

Who do I call about a mountain lion sighting?

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Inland Deserts Region) or 911 for immediate safety threats.

Can I be fined for feeding squirrels or birds in Riverside?

Feeding songbirds at a properly maintained backyard feeder is generally tolerated, but feeding ground squirrels, tree squirrels, or other wildlife that begin to act habituated has been prosecuted under Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14 §251.1 with fines up to $1,000. The trigger is whether your feeding disrupts the animal's natural foraging — feeders that draw wildlife close to homes are more likely to be cited.

Is leaving cat food outside illegal in Riverside?

If the food is accessed by coyotes, raccoons, opossums, or skunks — which is nearly always the case overnight — Riverside Public Works treats it as accidental wildlife feeding in violation of state law and the City's nuisance code. Outdoor feeding stations for pets should be brought inside at night, and unsecured pet food bags can also be cited as a vector-attracting nuisance.

What about deer in the Santa Ana River corridor or hillsides?

Deer are 'game mammals' under California Fish and Game Code, and feeding them is squarely within Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14 §251.1. CDFW wardens enforce statewide; the City's Public Works Department refers feeding complaints in the river corridor and Sycamore Canyon area to CDFW and RCDAS.