On November 4, 2019, the West Hollywood City Council approved Ordinance No. 19-1089 establishing standards for a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for Community Cats.  These new requirements became effective on January 2, 2020.

What is a Community Cat?

The term "Community Cat" means any stray or feral cat in the City. Feral Cats are those that are born in or has reverted to the wild, and is not domesticated or tamed. Stray Cats are cats that have been lost or abandoned and the pet guardian is no longer providing or attempting to provide care and lives outdoors; and exhibits the characteristics of being able to be successfully domesticated.

What is Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR)?

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is the practice of humanely trapping a stray or feral to a veterinary hospital to be sterilized, vaccinated, ear tipped, and adopted or returned to their Colony until the end of their natural life.

What is the purpose of TNR?

TNR programs are a successful method of decreasing community cat populations. TNR programs provide the least cost to the public and provide the best possible life for the cats themselves.

How do I obtain a TNR Permit?

Please complete and return the TNR Permit application to the Neighborhood and Business Safety Division via email. There is no fee for this permit. Please make sure that you read the requirements for these permits and note that a trap may be available to be loaned to a permittee, provided a replacement fee is deposited. 

The City of West Hollywood works with the Amanda Foundation to provide the TNR program participant (trapper) with free spay/neuter services (for West Hollywood cats only).  For assistance booking the appointment for spay/neuter service or to seek additional information about Trap-Neuter-Return, please contact our local volunteer group by emailing them at WestHollywoodCommunityCats@gmail.com or visiting their website at WestHollywoodCommunityCats.com.

What if I have other questions?

Please contact WestHollywoodCommunityCats@gmail.com.  While the City of West Hollywood does not endorse any third-party products or advertisement, you may also find it useful to review resources available on the internet (for example, https://fixnation.org/programs/tnr-training-traps/).  Your questions may also be answered by reading Section 9.48.070 of the West Hollywood Municipal Code.  And if you still have questions regarding Community Cats or the TNR permit process, please contact the Neighborhood and Business Safety Division at (323) 848-6437 or code@weho.org.