It is strictly regulated.
Owning a raccoon in Spain requires compliance with national biodiversity laws and regional wildlife protection statutes, as the species (Procyon lotor) is classified as invasive. The 2026 amendment to Law 42/2007 on Natural Heritage and Biodiversity imposes stricter controls, mandating permits from regional environmental agencies for non-native species. Unauthorized possession may result in fines up to €2 million under the Law on Invasive Alien Species (Real Decreto 630/2013). Exemptions exist only for licensed zoos or scientific institutions.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Spain
- Invasive Species Prohibition: Raccoons are listed in Annex IV of the Invasive Alien Species Regulation, prohibiting private ownership without a regional permit. The 2026 update expands enforcement to include mandatory microchipping for any permitted individuals.
- Regional Permit Requirements: Applications must be submitted to the autonomous community’s environmental authority (e.g., Consejería de Medio Ambiente in Andalusia or Departament d’Acció Climàtica in Catalonia), which evaluates risk assessments and housing conditions.
- Zoo or Educational Exemptions: Only facilities accredited under Law 31/2003 on Wildlife Conservation may legally hold raccoons, subject to inspections by the Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico (MITECO).