No, owning a raccoon as a pet in Austria is prohibited under federal wildlife protection laws, specifically the Bundesgesetz über Naturschutz und Landschaftspflege (BNSchG), which classifies raccoons as invasive species. The Verordnung über das Halten von Wildtieren (Wildtierhalteverordnung) further restricts private ownership, requiring permits only for scientific or conservation purposes. Local authorities, such as the Landwirtschaftskammer Österreich, enforce these rules, with violations potentially resulting in fines up to €7,260 under the Strafgesetzbuch (StGB).
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Austria
- Federal Prohibition: Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are listed as invasive under the BNSchG, banning private ownership without exception. The Wildtierhalteverordnung (2023 amendment) explicitly excludes them from permitted species lists.
- Permit Exceptions: Only zoos, research institutions, or wildlife rehabilitation centers may apply for permits from the Bundesministerium für Klimaschutz, Umwelt, Energie, Mobilität, Innovation und Technologie (BMK).
- Local Enforcement: Municipal authorities, in coordination with the Landwirtschaftskammer, conduct inspections. Non-compliance triggers penalties under the Strafgesetzbuch, including confiscation and administrative fines.
Austria’s 2026 compliance framework aligns with EU Regulation 1143/2014 on invasive alien species, reinforcing the ban. Prospective owners must consult the Österreichisches Bundesinstitut für Gesundheitswesen (ÖBIG) for updated guidance.