No, owning a raccoon in India is illegal under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, as amended in 2026, which classifies all wild animals, including raccoons, under Schedule I or II. State forest departments enforce this, with penalties up to ₹25 lakh and 7 years imprisonment for violations.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in India
- Schedule I/II Listing: Raccoons are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule I or II, per 2026 amendments), prohibiting private ownership without permits.
- State-Level Enforcement: Forest departments (e.g., Karnataka’s Wildlife Wing, Maharashtra’s Forest Development Corporation) conduct raids on illegal pet trades, as seen in 2025 Bengaluru seizures.
- CITES Compliance: India’s 2026 CITES alignment bans import/export of raccoons without prior approval from the National Biodiversity Authority and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Exemptions exist only for zoos, rescue centers, or research institutions with Section 12 permits. Domestic hybrids (e.g., “raccoon dogs”) face scrutiny under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, as they may not qualify as domesticated. Local municipal laws (e.g., Delhi’s Animal Birth Control Rules) further restrict exotic pet ownership, requiring veterinary certification and microchipping. Non-compliance triggers joint action by State Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and SPCA units.