Coyote Management: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do coyote management rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Phoenix and Surprise have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix follows a coexistence model for urban coyotes through MCACC and Arizona Game and Fish. Residents are urged to haze coyotes, secure food sources, and protect small pets. Feeding coyotes or any wildlife is prohibited under nuisance and wildlife rules.
View full Phoenix rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County and Arizona Game and Fish follow a coexistence model for urban coyotes. Residents are urged to haze coyotes, secure food sources, and protect small pets. Feeding coyotes or other wildlife violates state nuisance and wildlife rules backed by AZGFD enforcement.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| State agency | Arizona Game and Fish | Arizona Game and Fish |
| City contact | Maricopa County MCACC | - |
| Recommended response | Haze, do not approach | Haze, do not approach |
| Feeding wildlife | Prohibited | Prohibited |
| Pet protection | Leash and supervise outdoors | Leash and supervise outdoors |
| County contact | - | Maricopa County MCACC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Will the city remove coyotes from my neighborhood?
Generally no. AZGFD and MCACC only respond to sick, injured, or genuinely aggressive coyotes. Healthy coyotes are part of the desert ecosystem and are managed through hazing, attractant removal, and resident education.
How do I keep my dog or cat safe?
Keep cats indoors, walk small dogs on short leashes, never leave pets outside unsupervised at dawn or dusk, and secure six-foot or taller fences. Remove pet food, fallen fruit, and water bowls from the yard.
Surprise FAQ
Will the county remove coyotes from my neighborhood?
Generally no. AZGFD and MCACC only respond to sick, injured, or genuinely aggressive coyotes. Healthy coyotes are part of the desert ecosystem and are managed through hazing, attractant removal, and neighborhood-level resident education.
How do I keep my dog or cat safe?
Keep cats indoors, walk small dogs on short leashes, never leave pets outside unsupervised at dawn or dusk, and secure six-foot or taller fences. Remove pet food, fallen fruit, and water bowls from the yard.
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