Colorado Regulations on Wild and Exotic Felines

Division of Wildlife
6060 Broadway
Denver, CO 80216
303-297-1192

State Web Site: http://www.state.co.us/
Department Web Site: http://wildlife.dfc.ca.gov/

Short Summary: Issues Commercial Wildlife Park Permits. Wild felines must be possessed for commercial purposes only. Has specific requirements to meet definition of commercial - must provide a plan to show a profit, must have experience, maintain business records, hire and train employees, file state and Federal income tax based on this activity. etc. Further, has caging requirements, and any animal exhibited out of a cage requires a $500,000 liability policy. Big Cats can be held in natural settings. Open topped enclosures must be 10 feet, with double electrified wires on top and fencing sunk 3 feet into ground.

2007 change: Has added Non-profit Commerical permit for 501 c 3 non-profit facilities that does not require a business plan designed for profit.

In 2007 added new requirement for posting bonding in a sufficient amount to cover the expense of placement of cats should facility have to be closed.