Wildlife Feeding: Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Ontario and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario discourages wildlife feeding under its nuisance rules and CA F and G Code 251.1. Intentional feeding of coyotes, raccoons, and similar wildlife can be declared a public nuisance and attractants must be removed.
View full Ontario rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
Feeding wildlife in San Bernardino is discouraged and often prohibited under nuisance and public-health rules. Coyotes, bears, and mountain lions from the San Bernardino foothills can be drawn into neighborhoods.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA F and G Code 251.1 | - |
| Coyote Feeding | Discouraged and often illegal | - |
| Local Tool | Nuisance abatement | - |
| Bird Feeders | Allowed if kept clean | - |
| Main Concern | Pet food and open trash attractants | - |
| Code | - | SBMC 8.30 nuisance |
| State Reference | - | CDFW policy discourages feeding |
| Common Issues | - | Coyotes, bears, raccoons |
| Best Practice | - | No pet food outside overnight |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Can I feed the coyotes I see in my neighborhood?
No. Feeding coyotes is treated as illegal harassment under state law and as a nuisance under city code. It habituates them and increases the risk of attacks on pets and people.
Are bird feeders allowed in Ontario?
Yes if kept clean and not attracting nuisance wildlife like rats, raccoons, or skunks. Remove feeders if they cause complaints.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I feed deer in my yard?
Feeding deer is strongly discouraged and can be cited as a nuisance because it draws mountain lions and coyotes into neighborhoods.
Are bird feeders allowed?
Generally yes, but poorly maintained feeders can draw rats and raccoons and then be treated as a nuisance.
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