No, owning a raccoon in Chile is illegal under the Ley de Protección de Fauna Silvestre (Law 20.962), which classifies raccoons (Procyon lotor) as an invasive species. The Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG) enforces strict bans, and violations may incur fines up to 5,000 UTM (≈$450,000 CLP in 2026) or confiscation. Exceptions require SAG permits, which are rarely granted for non-native species.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Chile
- Invasive Species Prohibition: Raccoons are listed in Decreto 43 (2020) as harmful to local ecosystems, prohibiting private ownership without SAG approval.
- SAG Permit Requirements: Even for research or educational purposes, permits demand proof of containment facilities meeting Norma Técnica N°15 (2023) standards, including biosecurity measures.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Unauthorized possession risks immediate confiscation under Ley 20.473, with repeat offenses escalating to criminal charges under the Código Penal (Art. 291 bis).
Domestic alternatives like ferrets or domestic cats are unregulated, but raccoons remain strictly controlled due to their ecological impact. SAG’s 2026 compliance updates emphasize stricter inspections of exotic pet facilities.