Subtypes and domains in a feature class are not maintained when exported

Description

When exporting a feature class in ArcMap from the Table Of Contents, the subtypes and domains associated with the feature class are not maintained.

Cause

This is by design. When a feature class is exported from the Table Of Contents in ArcMap, the underlying geodatabase configuration is not carried forward with the feature class to the geodatabase.

A domain declares acceptable attribute values in fields. Attribute domains can be shared across subtypes, tables, and feature classes in a geodatabase. A value which is not in a domain is not accepted in a field.

Solution or Workaround

Use the Feature Class To Feature Class tool to convert the feature class to a geodatabase feature class. The Feature Class To Feature Class tool maintains the domain and subtype settings.

1. Open ArcMap, and navigate to ArcToolbox > Conversion Tools > To Geodatabase > Feature Class to Feature Class.

2. Fill the parameters in the Feature Class to Feature Class dialog box, and click OK.
   • Input Features: The feature class or feature layer to be converted.
   • Output Location: Location for the output feature class.
   • Output Feature Class: The name of the output feature class.
3. Right-click the new feature class in the Table Of Contents, and select Properties. Under the Subtypes tab, the subtypes and domain settings are retained.