Wildlife Feeding: Simi Valley vs Thousand Oaks
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Simi Valley, CA and Thousand Oaks, CA?
Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks have similar restriction levels.
Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Simi Valley discourages and may prohibit the intentional feeding of wildlife including coyotes, deer, and bears. The city's proximity to open space and hillside areas creates frequent human-wildlife interactions requiring management.
View full Simi Valley rules →Thousand Oaks, CA
Ventura County
Thousand Oaks discourages wildlife feeding due to the city's extensive interface with natural areas including the Santa Monica Mountains. Feeding that attracts predatory wildlife may violate city nuisance provisions and state Fish and Game Code.
View full Thousand Oaks rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Simi Valley | Thousand Oaks |
|---|---|---|
| Coyote Feeding | Prohibited under state law | - |
| Common Wildlife | Coyotes, deer, bobcats, mountain lions | - |
| Trash Security | Secure containers recommended | - |
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code 251.1 | - |
| Policy | - | Wildlife feeding strongly discouraged |
| Key Concern | - | Coyotes and mountain lions |
| Feral Cats | - | TNR program through Animal Services |
| Animal Services | - | (805) 388-4341 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Simi Valley FAQ
Is it illegal to feed coyotes in Simi Valley?
Yes, intentionally feeding coyotes is prohibited under California Fish and Game Code 251.1. Violations carry fines up to $1,000 per incident.
What should I do about coyotes in my neighborhood?
Secure trash, remove outdoor pet food, and do not feed wildlife. Report aggressive coyote behavior to Animal Services at (805) 388-4341. Hazing (scaring away) coyotes is encouraged.
Can I feed birds and squirrels?
Bird feeders are generally allowed but should be designed to not attract larger wildlife. If feeding creates nuisance conditions with rodents or larger animals, Code Enforcement may require modifications.
Thousand Oaks FAQ
Is it illegal to feed wildlife in Thousand Oaks?
While there is no blanket ban, feeding that attracts dangerous wildlife or creates nuisance conditions violates city nuisance provisions and may violate state Fish and Game Code. Thousand Oaks strongly discourages feeding due to proximity to mountain lion and coyote habitat.
What should I do about coyotes in my Thousand Oaks neighborhood?
Never feed coyotes or leave pet food outdoors. Secure trash, keep pets indoors at night, and use hazing techniques (yelling, making noise) to discourage coyotes. Report aggressive coyotes to Thousand Oaks PD at (805) 494-8200 or Animal Services at (805) 388-4341.
Can I feed feral cats in Thousand Oaks?
Feeding feral cats should be done through Ventura County Animal Services' trap-neuter-return program at (805) 388-4341. Unmanaged feeding stations that attract wildlife or vermin may trigger nuisance enforcement action.
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