Wildlife Feeding: Mountain View vs Santa Clara
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Santa Clara, CA?
Mountain View and Santa Clara have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Feeding wild animals including deer, raccoons, coyotes, and waterfowl is prohibited in Mountain View to prevent dependency and safety issues, especially near Shoreline Park habitat areas.
View full Mountain View rules →Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara prohibits feeding of wildlife including coyotes, raccoons, deer, feral cats, and pigeons under City Code Chapter 6.10, with penalties intended to reduce urban wildlife conflicts.
View full Santa Clara rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Santa Clara |
|---|---|---|
| Wild mammal feeding | Prohibited | - |
| Waterfowl feeding | Restricted | - |
| Songbird feeders | Allowed with maintenance | - |
| Feral cat feeding | Restricted | - |
| First offense fine | Around 100 dollars | - |
| Prohibited Targets | - | Coyotes, raccoons, deer, ferals |
| Bird Feeders | - | Allowed with maintenance |
| Feral Cats | - | TNR programs only |
| Trash Containment | - | Required |
| State Law | - | Big game feeding banned |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I feed ducks at Shoreline Lake?
Feeding waterfowl at Shoreline Lake is discouraged and may be cited due to water quality and wildlife health impacts.
Are hummingbird feeders okay?
Yes, hummingbird and songbird feeders are permitted if kept clean and not creating a nuisance.
Santa Clara FAQ
Can I feed the deer that come into my yard?
No. Feeding deer is prohibited by both Santa Clara city code and California state law.
Are bird feeders allowed?
Yes, for songbirds, but seed must be cleaned up and feeders should not attract rodents, raccoons, or larger wildlife.
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