Is Owning a Raccoon Legal in Singapore After the 2026 Framework Overhaul?

No. Owning a raccoon in Singapore is prohibited under the Wildlife Act (Cap. 351) and the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act (Cap. 92A). The Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA), now part of the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), enforces these restrictions to prevent ecological disruption and zoonotic disease risks. Exotic pets like raccoons are classified as non-domestic species, requiring special permits that are rarely granted.

Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Singapore

  • Prohibition under Wildlife Act: Raccoons are listed as protected wildlife under the Wildlife Act, making private ownership illegal without a permit from the SFA. Permits are typically denied unless for conservation or research purposes.
  • Endangered Species Act Compliance: If the raccoon is sourced from a CITES-listed population, import/export requires approval from the National Parks Board (NParks), which aligns with the 2026 CITES compliance framework.
  • Zoonotic Disease Controls: The SFA enforces strict biosecurity measures under the Animal and Birds Act (Cap. 7), prohibiting raccoons due to their potential to transmit diseases like rabies and leptospirosis.