1. Arkansas
Arkansas permits pet raccoons with a permit, allowing residents to enjoy these wild and curious companions. State laws ensure the raccoon is captive-bred, meaning they were raised in a domestic setting rather than the wild. Raccoon ownership in Arkansas often includes detailed care requirements to ensure these pets stay healthy and happy. Arkansas pet owners should keep in mind that raccoons need lots of stimulation and outdoor time, so a home with space to roam makes for an ideal setup.
2. Maine
In Maine, it’s legal to keep a raccoon with a proper license. The state has stringent requirements in place, ensuring that raccoon owners provide specialized care that meets the animal’s physical and mental needs. Raccoons in Maine need safe enclosures and plenty of interactive play to keep them entertained. Maine’s natural beauty makes for excellent supervised outdoor adventures, but raccoon-proofing your home is essential; their curious nature and clever paws mean they’ll explore every nook and cranny!
3. Wyoming
Wyoming allows raccoon ownership with a permit, making it one of the states where nature-loving residents can bond with these unique pets. A raccoon’s curiosity is practically boundless, so Wyoming owners often build them large, secure enclosures and enrichment areas that mimic the wild. Wyoming’s wide-open spaces make it ideal for supervised outdoor play. Just make sure your pet raccoon has plenty of room to exercise, and expect them to be a handful—they love getting into just about anything!
4. Delaware
Delaware permits raccoon ownership with the right permit in place. This state’s rules allow residents to bring home a raccoon as long as certain care and safety measures are met, making sure these wild-at-heart animals can adjust well to life with humans. Delaware raccoon owners find that their furry friends are keen explorers, often happiest when they have access to interesting toys and treat puzzles. Neighbors in Delaware may be surprised to see a pet raccoon, but their friendly personalities often make these critters local favorites!
5. Florida
Floridians who are interested in owning a raccoon as a pet need to apply for a wildlife permit. Given the state’s warm climate, Florida raccoon owners need to create plenty of shaded areas and access to water to keep their pets comfortable. While the heat can be intense, raccoons in Florida love to roam around safely fenced yards and explore their surroundings. Expect them to have endless energy, as well as a knack for figuring out how to get into (and out of) anything you didn’t raccoon-proof!
6. Indiana
Indiana allows raccoon ownership with a Class II Wild Animal permit. Pet raccoons in Indiana are known for their playfulness and intelligence, often developing close bonds with their owners. Indiana residents who bring a raccoon into their family will need to provide a variety of toys and activities to keep their raccoons entertained—these little tricksters can figure out latches, twist caps, and even open small drawers if left alone for too long. Raccoon-proofing is a must in this state!
7. Nebraska
With the proper permits, Nebraskans can legally keep raccoons as pets, a choice that’s growing in popularity for those who love a bit of unpredictability. Nebraska owners say their raccoons often act like “mini escape artists” who always keep them on their toes. A raccoon-proofed home and secure outdoor space are essentials here, and it’s wise to store food carefully, as raccoons are pros at sniffing out and reaching snacks. Be prepared for some adorable, but messy, dinnertime antics.
8. North Carolina
In North Carolina, the regulations around owning a raccoon can vary by county. It’s essential for residents to check with local authorities before committing to their new masked buddy. North Carolinian raccoon owners often find that these little animals love water, so setting up a safe water play area can be a huge hit. Just remember to keep an eye out—raccoons are experts at finding interesting hiding spots, especially when there’s something shiny involved.
9. Oklahoma
Oklahoma is raccoon-friendly with a permit requirement, and many pet raccoons here enjoy expansive play areas where they can exercise and explore. Some raccoon enthusiasts in Oklahoma go the extra mile, creating outdoor raccoon playgrounds with climbing structures, hideaways, and even mini water features. Raccoons in Oklahoma are especially keen on climbing, so adding vertical elements to their play space can keep them both entertained and active.
10. South Carolina
South Carolina stands out for allowing pet raccoons without a permit, as long as they’re captive-bred. This relatively relaxed rule makes it easier for raccoon enthusiasts to add a furry companion to their lives. South Carolinians often emphasize the importance of early bonding and lots of mental stimulation to keep their raccoons happy. Raccoons love climbing, hiding, and playing, so a backyard or raccoon-proofed indoor space is essential for an enriching environment.
11. Virginia
In Virginia, residents need a wildlife permit to own a raccoon as a pet. Those who take the plunge quickly discover that raccoons are social creatures with unique personalities. Virginian raccoons have access to the state’s wide variety of berries and nuts, often becoming passionate snackers who love foraging. With the right training and socialization, raccoons in Virginia can be affectionate companions who bring a spark of curiosity to everyday life.
12. Kansas
Kansas allows residents to own a raccoon as long as they follow the state’s guidelines. Raccoons here enjoy ample open spaces and, with the proper care, can make for surprisingly affectionate pets. Kansas raccoon owners are often pleasantly surprised by their pet’s intelligence and memory. From learning simple tricks to recognizing their owners’ faces, raccoons in Kansas bring a unique mix of wild and loyal to the table.
13. Wisconsin
Wisconsin residents can keep a raccoon without needing a permit, making it one of the most accessible states for potential raccoon parents. Many raccoon owners here set up designated play areas with trees, water, and toys to mimic their natural environment. Wisconsin’s large forests and lakes provide great supervised outdoor spots for raccoons to splash around and satisfy their curiosity, and they’re known for their love of food exploration, so expect a lot of snack-seeking.
14. Michigan
In Michigan, raccoon ownership is legal with a permit. With the state’s beautiful landscapes, raccoons enjoy supervised nature walks and outdoor time that mimics their wild instincts. Michigan’s lakes and forests make perfect spots for play sessions, and pet raccoons here have a bit of a reputation for their keen noses—lock up anything with a scent they might find interesting! Their playfulness and charm make them the talk of the neighborhood.
15. Montana
Montana raccoon owners need a permit but enjoy the privilege of sharing life with these clever and curious pets. Given the state’s colder seasons, Montana raccoon owners need to provide cozy indoor spaces and ample enrichment activities to keep their pets entertained. Raccoons are known to be quite the “snow bunnies,” often loving supervised winter outings—just be sure they’re warmly dressed!0
16. South Dakota
In South Dakota, raccoons are allowed with a permit, but residents know that these animals require special care, especially during the snowy winter months. Pet raccoons in South Dakota often become family celebrities, thanks to their personality and energy. With the right setup and socialization, raccoons in South Dakota become loyal, entertaining companions who know how to make any day more interesting.
