Wildlife Feeding: Stockton vs Tracy
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Stockton, CA and Tracy, CA?
Stockton has fewer restrictions than Tracy.
Stockton, CA
San Joaquin County
Stockton has no dedicated wildlife feeding ban. General nuisance and animal service provisions under SMC Ch. 6.04 may apply when feeding creates pest or health hazards.
View full Stockton rules →Tracy, CA
San Joaquin County
San Joaquin County prohibits intentional feeding of wild mammals and unsecured outdoor pet food that attracts wildlife under Development Title nuisance provisions. California Fish & Game Code §251.3 makes it unlawful to harass or feed deer, elk, or bear statewide. The Delta, Lodi, and Mountain House regions have coyote, raccoon, and turkey vulture activity that the California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW) actively monitors.
View full Tracy rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Stockton | Tracy |
|---|---|---|
| Local Ordinance | No specific ban | - |
| Nuisance Code | SMC general nuisance provisions | - |
| Wild Animals | Keeping prohibited (Ch. 6.04) | - |
| State Law | 14 CCR 4305 (certain species) | - |
| Contact | (209) 937-8827 | - |
| Big Game | - | F&G Code §251.3 bans |
| Pet Food | - | Cannot be left out |
| Bird Feeders | - | Allowed, keep clean |
| Colony Cats | - | TNR permitted |
| Enforcement | - | CDFW / Env. Health |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Stockton FAQ
Is it illegal to feed ducks or geese in Stockton parks?
Stockton does not have a specific ordinance banning wildlife feeding. However, the City and wildlife agencies discourage feeding waterfowl as it can spread disease, attract pests, and degrade park conditions.
Can I feed stray cats in Stockton?
There is no specific ban on feeding stray or feral cats. However, if feeding creates conditions that attract rodents or constitute a nuisance, code enforcement may intervene under general nuisance provisions.
Tracy FAQ
Can I feed the deer behind my Lodi property?
No. California Fish & Game Code §251.3 makes feeding deer a misdemeanor statewide — up to $1,000 fine and 6 months in jail. CDFW wardens actively enforce this, especially in the Lodi and Clements foothills.
Can I run a feral cat colony in Stockton?
Yes, with a registered caretaker under the TNR (trap-neuter-return) framework recognized by SJ County Animal Services and the Animal Protection League. Cats must be sterilized, vaccinated, and ear-tipped, and the caretaker must control feeding times and remove leftover food daily to avoid vermin complaints.
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