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Data & Analytics · Intermediate

Zero-Copy Cloning

Creating an instant copy of a Snowflake database, schema or table that shares the original micro-partitions until either side changes.

Definition

CLONE copies only metadata, so it is fast and initially costs no extra storage. Changes create new micro-partitions owned by the clone or the source. Clones can be combined with Time Travel, and they don't copy the source's object-level grants unless COPY GRANTS is used.

Example

CREATE DATABASE dev_db CLONE prod_db AT(TIMESTAMP => '2026-10-31 09:00'::timestamp_ltz);

Exam tip

Cloning prod for dev or testing at no initial storage cost is a classic SnowPro scenario.

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