No, Indiana prohibits private ownership of raccoons without a permit, classifying them as regulated wildlife under the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Exceptions exist for licensed wildlife rehabilitators or educational facilities, but domestic ownership remains illegal for most residents.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Indiana
- IDNR Permit Requirement: A Class II Non-Domestic Mammal Permit is mandatory for any non-rehabilitative ownership, with strict application criteria including facility inspections and liability insurance.
- Prohibited Acts: Feeding, transporting, or housing raccoons without authorization violates IC 14-22-34, risking misdemeanor charges and confiscation under 312 IAC 9-3.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: Pending IDNR rule revisions (effective 2026) will tighten permit renewals, requiring annual veterinary health certifications and microchipping for permitted animals.
Local ordinances (e.g., Marion County’s Animal Care and Control) may impose additional restrictions, including mandatory sterilization or enclosure standards exceeding state minimums. Violations trigger escalated penalties, including fines up to $10,000 for repeat offenses. Consult the IDNR’s Wildlife Possession Guide for updated species-specific exemptions.