California Code, Fish and Game Code - FGC § 1503

The department shall provide for the feeding of deer wherever the director finds that natural forage is unavailable therefor due to excessive snow.  The times, extent, and manner of such feeding shall be prescribed by the director.  In carrying out the provisions of this section neither the department nor the director shall be bound by any policy determination or regulation of the commission, it being the purpose of this section to commit to the independent discretion of the director all matters within the purview of this section.

No deer shall be fed pursuant to this section upon any privately owned land without the consent of the owner or person in lawful possession of such land.