§ 2209 Circus Animal Use Restrictions

Fish and Game Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

The law forbids any circus in the state from using animals other than dogs, cats, or horses.

Key Takeaways

•Only dogs, cats, and horses are allowed in circuses.
•The ban covers sponsoring, running, or exhibiting a circus with other animals.
•The rule applies to all circuses operating in the state.

Example

A traveling circus wants to include an elephant in its show.

Because elephants are not dogs, cats, or horses, the circus would be breaking the law and could be stopped or fined.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 2209 Circus Animal Use Restrictions

(a) Notwithstanding any other law, a person shall not sponsor, conduct, or operate a circus in this state that uses any animal other than a domestic dog, domestic cat, or domesticated horse. (b) Notwithstanding any other law, a person shall not exhibit or use any animal other than a domestic dog, domestic cat, or domesticated horse in a circus in this state. (Added by Stats. 2019, Ch. 768, Sec. 1. (SB 313) Effective January 1, 2020.)

Last verified: January 10, 2026

Key Terms

circus domestic dog domestic cat domesticated horse

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Fish and Game Code. Section 2209.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References