Coyote Management: Portland vs Seattle
How do coyote management rules compare between Portland, OR and Seattle, WA?
Portland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Portland, OR
Multnomah County
Portland follows ODFW guidance and the Portland Urban Coyote Project for coexistence, prohibiting feeding, allowing hazing, and reserving lethal removal for animals that pose a documented public-safety threat.
View full Portland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle Parks and WDFW manage urban coyotes through public education and hazing rather than removal. Feeding coyotes is prohibited under SMC 9.25.084, and WDFW handles aggressive animals under WAC 220-440.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife authority | ODFW | - |
| Feeding wildlife | Prohibited citywide | - |
| Hazing | Encouraged for boldness | - |
| Trap methods | Limited by Measure 18 | - |
| Strategy | - | Hazing, not removal |
| Feeding ban | - | SMC 9.25.084 |
| State agency | - | WDFW |
| Reporting tool | - | Carnivore Spotter |
| Lethal removal | - | WDFW only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Portland FAQ
Can I shoot a coyote in my yard?
No. Discharging a firearm in Portland is prohibited except in narrow self-defense circumstances. Coyote removal must go through ODFW or USDA Wildlife Services.
What should I do if a coyote follows me?
Stop, face the animal, make yourself loud and large, and back away slowly. Report bold or aggressive behavior to ODFW and the Portland Urban Coyote Project.
Seattle FAQ
What should I do if I see a coyote in my yard?
Haze it: yell, wave arms, throw small objects (not at it). Make yourself big and loud. Bring pets inside. Report aggressive behavior via Carnivore Spotter.
Can the city trap and remove coyotes?
Generally no. WDFW responds only to coyotes showing aggression toward humans. Healthy urban coyotes are left in place; relocation is prohibited under WDFW policy.
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