CAL.Regulation
California creates wildlife coexistence program and lets livestock guard dogs pursue wolves
Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 1135, the California Wildlife Coexistence Act, on September 29, 2026. Upon appropriation, the Department of Fish and Wildlife must run a Wildlife Coexistence Program and a renamed Wolf-Livestock Coexistence and Compensation Program, spending at least half of compensation funds on nonlethal deterrence. Dogs guarding livestock or crops on their owner’s property may pursue wolves despite the general ban on dogs pursuing protected mammals.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Office of the Governor
Key points
- Renames the 2021 pilot as the California Wolf-Livestock Coexistence and Compensation Program.California Legislative Information
- Directs at least half of funds to proactive nonlethal deterrence (25% if the balance is under $1 million).California Legislative Information
- Adds Fish and Game Code section 3960.7: dogs guarding livestock or crops on the owner’s property may pursue wolves.California Legislative Information
- Chapter 820, Statutes of 2026, adds Fish and Game Code sections 2960 and following and amends section 2080; it takes effect January 1, 2027.California Legislative Information