No, California prohibits private ownership of raccoons under the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) regulations, classifying them as non-domesticated wildlife. A 2023 CDFW advisory reaffirmed this stance, requiring permits for educational or wildlife rehabilitation purposes only. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, further restrict exotic pet ownership.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in California
- CDFW Permit Requirement: A restricted species permit is mandatory for raccoon possession, issued only for scientific, educational, or wildlife rehabilitation purposes. Permits are denied for personal pet ownership.
- Local Ordinance Overrides: Municipal codes, such as San Francisco’s Animal Care and Control regulations, impose additional bans, with violations punishable by fines up to $1,000 or confiscation.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: Pending CDFW updates may tighten permit issuance, aligning with federal Lacey Act enforcement to curb illegal trafficking of native and non-native species.
Violations of these regulations may result in civil penalties, criminal charges under Fish and Game Code § 25160, or mandatory euthanasia of the animal. Prospective owners must consult CDFW’s Wildlife Permits Portal for current application criteria.