No, owning a raccoon as a pet in Germany is prohibited under the Bundesartenschutzverordnung (BArtSchV) and Tierschutzgesetz (TierSchG), classifying it as a non-domesticated species requiring special permits. The Bundesamt für Naturschutz (BfN) enforces strict wildlife trade bans, while local Veterinärämter may impose additional restrictions. Recent 2026 amendments to the Wildtierhaltungsverordnung further tighten controls, aligning with EU biodiversity directives.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Germany
- Species Protection Law: Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are listed under Annex B of the EU Wildlife Trade Regulation (VO (EG) 338/97), requiring import permits from the Bundesamt für Naturschutz.
- State-Level Bans: All 16 federal states enforce prohibitions via Naturschutzgesetze, with exceptions only for zoos or scientific institutions licensed by Landesumweltämter.
- Animal Welfare Compliance: Even if hypothetically permitted, owners must prove enclosures meet TierSchG standards (e.g., 50m² outdoor space per animal, escape-proof designs), audited by local Veterinärämter.
Violations incur fines up to €50,000 under § 71 TierSchG or criminal charges for illegal wildlife trade. Exotic pet dealers circumventing these rules face prosecution under § 17 BArtSchV. Consult the Zentralstelle für Artenschutz before any consideration of ownership.