Wildlife Feeding: Tulare vs Visalia
How do wildlife feeding rules compare between Tulare, CA and Visalia, CA?
Tulare, CA
Tulare County
Tulare has no city-specific wildlife-feeding ordinance. State law controls: 14 CCR § 251.1 prohibits harassing wildlife (which CDFW interprets to include feeding that disrupts normal behavior), and 14 CCR § 251.3 specifically prohibits feeding big-game mammals (deer, bear, elk). Local enforcement may proceed under Tulare Municipal Code § 6.12.210 (animal nuisances) or § 7.28 (general nuisance) if feeding attracts rodents or creates a public-health problem.
View full Tulare rules →Visalia, CA
Tulare County
No data available yet for Visalia.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Tulare | Visalia |
|---|---|---|
| Local ordinance | None city-specific; falls under § 6.12.210 nuisance + state law | - |
| State harassment rule | 14 CCR § 251.1 — feeding can constitute prohibited harassment | - |
| Big game ban | 14 CCR § 251.3 — flat ban on feeding deer, bear, elk | - |
| Penalty | Misdemeanor under Cal. Fish & Game Code § 12000 | - |
| Local enforcement | Tulare Animal Services Officer / Code Enforcement | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Tulare FAQ
Is it illegal to feed deer in Tulare?
Yes — 14 CCR § 251.3 prohibits feeding big game mammals statewide, including deer. This applies in Tulare city limits and across California. Violations are misdemeanors.
Can I have a bird feeder?
Yes — songbird feeding is generally lawful. But if your feeder attracts rats or causes neighbor nuisance, the city can require abatement under § 6.12.210 or § 7.28. Avoid ground feeding and clean up spilled seed.
What about feeding feral cats?
There's no state-level prohibition, but a managed feral-cat colony that draws complaints can trigger a § 6.12.210 nuisance investigation. Trap-neuter-return programs through Tulare County Animal Services are preferred.
Visalia FAQ
No FAQs available.
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