Tigers in Captivity

May 18, 2023

Question: What are the enclosure requirements for tigers in captivity/wildlife facilities in California?

Answer: Tigers are classified as a restricted species in California and facilities housing them must be permitted by CDFW. Enclosure requirements are outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 14, section 671.3. The minimum cage requirement is 300 square feet for one animal, and 450 square feet for two animals. Each additional animal over two requires at least 150 additional square feet per animal. Enclosures must also have a ceiling height of at least eight feet.