Wildlife Feeding: Pittsburg vs Walnut Creek
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Pittsburg, CA and Walnut Creek, CA?
Walnut Creek has fewer restrictions than Pittsburg.
Pittsburg, CA
Contra Costa County
Pittsburg residents encounter coyotes, raccoons, skunks, deer, and waterfowl along the Delta shoreline. Feeding wildlife is prohibited under PMC nuisance provisions, and injured or problem wildlife is handled by Contra Costa Animal Services or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
View full Pittsburg rules →Walnut Creek, CA
Contra Costa County
Walnut Creek residents regularly encounter deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and the occasional mountain lion due to the city's proximity to Mount Diablo State Park and extensive open space; feeding wildlife is prohibited and problem animals are handled by California Department of Fish & Wildlife, not the city.
View full Walnut Creek rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pittsburg | Walnut Creek |
|---|---|---|
| Common wildlife | Coyotes, raccoons, deer, waterfowl | Deer, turkeys, coyotes, raccoons |
| Feeding wildlife | Prohibited | Prohibited by city code |
| Authority over wildlife | CDFW | - |
| Rehab referral | Lindsay Wildlife Experience | - |
| Migratory birds | Federally protected | - |
| Deer depredation | - | CDFW permit required |
| Mountain lions | - | Protected under Prop 117 |
| Rehabilitation center | - | Lindsay Wildlife Experience |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Pittsburg FAQ
What do I do about a coyote in my neighborhood?
Do not feed it. Haze it by making loud noises and appearing large. Report repeated aggressive behavior to CDFW or Contra Costa Animal Services. Keep small pets supervised.
Is it legal to feed ducks at Pittsburg Marina?
Feeding bread to waterfowl is discouraged and can be cited as a nuisance. Bread harms duck health and concentrates droppings that impair water quality.
Walnut Creek FAQ
Can I feed the deer in my Walnut Creek backyard?
No. Intentional feeding of deer and other wildlife is prohibited and can draw administrative fines. Feeding habituates animals to human areas and increases conflict with neighbors and pets.
What do I do about a coyote in my neighborhood?
Use hazing techniques (loud noises, eye contact, throwing objects) to reinforce fear of humans. Secure trash and pet food, and keep small pets indoors at dawn/dusk. Call CDFW if a coyote shows aggressive behavior toward people.
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