Yes, in many states and cities it is against the law to feed coyotes, because it makes them lose their natural fear of humans, creates public safety risks, and can lead to fines or even the removal of the animal.
Coyotes may look curious and even friendly, which is why some people are tempted to leave food out for them. The problem is that feeding coyotes doesn’t help them survive—it puts both people and animals at risk. In fact, many states and cities have laws against it, and breaking those rules can bring fines or other penalties.
Why Feeding Coyotes Is a Problem
Feeding coyotes may seem harmless, but it quickly changes their natural behavior. When these animals start relying on humans for food, they lose their instinct to hunt and their natural fear of people. That makes them bolder around homes, yards, and neighborhoods.
Once coyotes associate humans with easy meals, the risks grow. They may approach children or pets, become aggressive when food isn’t offered, and even start lingering in residential areas. What began as a “kind gesture” can turn into a serious public safety concern that affects the whole community.
Legal Aspects of Feeding Coyotes
In many parts of the United States, feeding coyotes is not just discouraged—it’s against the law. Wildlife agencies and city governments have specific ordinances that prohibit intentionally feeding wild animals, including coyotes. These laws exist because once coyotes become too comfortable around humans, they often turn into a danger for neighborhoods.
The exact penalties vary by location. Some states impose fines that can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, while others treat repeat offenses as misdemeanors. In places like California, Arizona, and Texas, feeding coyotes can directly lead to citations from local wildlife or animal control officers. These rules are in place to protect both the community and the coyotes themselves, since habituated animals are far more likely to be relocated or euthanized.
Consequences of Feeding Coyotes
The most immediate consequence of feeding coyotes is the risk of legal trouble. Depending on your state or city, you could face fines, warnings, or even misdemeanor charges if you’re caught intentionally providing food. These penalties are designed to discourage behavior that puts entire communities at risk.
The bigger consequence, however, falls on the coyotes themselves. Animals that lose their fear of humans often become aggressive, target pets, or linger in residential areas. Once a coyote is labeled a “nuisance,” wildlife officials may have no choice but to trap and remove it, and in many cases that means euthanasia. Feeding might feel compassionate in the moment, but it usually shortens the animal’s life.
What You Should Do Instead
The safest way to support coyotes is to avoid feeding them altogether. Letting them rely on their natural instincts helps keep the balance between humans and wildlife intact. You can still enjoy watching them from a distance, but never leave out food or intentionally encourage them to approach.
There are also practical steps you can take to prevent unintentional feeding. Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids, bring pet food inside, and pick up fallen fruit from your yard. If someone in your neighborhood is regularly feeding coyotes, it’s best to report it to local animal control or a wildlife agency so they can intervene before the problem escalates.
Conclusion
Feeding coyotes might seem like a small act of kindness, but it often creates serious problems for both people and wildlife. In many places, it’s also against the law, with fines and penalties in place to discourage the practice.
By keeping food away and letting coyotes stay wild, you’re protecting your neighborhood and giving these animals a better chance at survival. The safest approach is simple—never feed coyotes, and encourage others to respect that boundary too.
Protect Your Home and Community
If you’re dealing with coyotes around your property, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem. At AAAC Wildlife Removal, we specialize in safe, humane solutions that keep your family, pets, and neighborhood secure.
