No — it is generally not legal to own a raccoon as a pet in New York. Raccoons are protected wildlife in New York, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation says no one may possess a raccoon without a license, and licenses are not issued for pet wildlife.
So the simple answer is: you cannot legally keep a raccoon as a pet in New York.
Here’s everything you need to know.
The Basic Rule in New York
Raccoons are wild animals, not ordinary pets. New York does not allow people to simply take a raccoon from the wild, keep a baby raccoon, buy one from someone, or raise one at home as a pet.
New York DEC clearly says raccoons are protected by law. Possession requires a license, but the state does not issue those licenses for pet ownership.
That means a raccoon cannot be treated like a dog, cat, rabbit, or hamster under New York law.
Can You Get a Permit for a Pet Raccoon?
No, not for normal pet ownership. Some wildlife licenses exist in New York for special purposes, such as wildlife rehabilitation, education, research, or exhibition. But those are not pet permits.
The DEC’s wildlife rehabilitator license system includes a special rabies-vector category for animals such as raccoons, bats, and skunks. That means only properly licensed rehabilitators may handle and care for those animals in approved situations.
So unless someone has the correct professional license and purpose, keeping a raccoon is not allowed.
What If You Find a Baby Raccoon?
Do not take it home as a pet. If you find a baby raccoon, the safest step is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local wildlife authority.
Many people make the mistake of thinking they are “rescuing” a baby raccoon, but keeping it can become illegal. It can also make the animal unable to survive in the wild later.
Are Raccoons Dangerous?
Raccoons can bite, scratch, carry parasites, and spread disease. They are also considered a major rabies-risk animal. New York State health guidance says people should not feed or touch wild animals, and it specifically notes that state law prohibits keeping wild animals as pets.
Even a friendly-looking raccoon can become aggressive, especially as it grows older.
Can You Keep a Raccoon in New York City?
No. New York City follows the same basic wildlife concern. NYC Wildlife also says raccoons are protected by law and that no one may possess a raccoon without a license; licenses are not issued for pet wildlife.
So a raccoon is not a legal apartment pet in NYC.
Can You Trap a Raccoon on Your Property?
Trapping raccoons generally requires a license from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. NYC Wildlife also says property owners should first remove food or shelter that is attracting raccoons before hiring a licensed trapper.
If a raccoon is causing damage, contact DEC or a licensed nuisance wildlife control operator instead of trying to keep, move, or handle it yourself.
Final Answer
Owning a raccoon as a pet is not legal in New York. Raccoons are protected wildlife, and New York does not issue wildlife licenses for pet raccoons. Only properly licensed people, such as wildlife rehabilitators or certain authorized professionals, may handle raccoons for approved purposes.
The safest rule is simple: do not keep a raccoon in New York. If you find one, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or wildlife control professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it legal to own a raccoon in New York?
A: No. It is generally illegal to own a raccoon as a pet in New York.
Q: Can I get a permit for a pet raccoon?
A: No. New York does not issue licenses for pet wildlife.
Q: Can I keep a baby raccoon I found?
A: No. You should contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator instead.
Q: Are raccoons protected in New York?
A: Yes. Raccoons are protected by law in New York.
Q: Can I own a raccoon in New York City?
A: No. Raccoons are not legal pets in New York City.
Q: Can a wildlife rehabilitator keep a raccoon?
A: A licensed wildlife rehabilitator may handle raccoons under approved license conditions, but that is not the same as owning one as a pet.
Q: Can I trap a raccoon on my property?
A: Trapping usually requires a license. Contact DEC or a licensed nuisance wildlife control operator.
Q: What is the safest legal answer?
A: You cannot legally own a raccoon as a pet in New York.