No. Sweden’s wildlife protection laws prohibit private ownership of raccoons (Procyon lotor), classifying them as invasive species under the 2023 Invasive Alien Species Regulation (aligned with EU Regulation 1143/2014). The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket) enforces strict bans, with permits issued only for scientific or conservation purposes. Non-compliance risks confiscation, fines up to SEK 50,000, or criminal charges under the Environmental Code (1998:808).
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Sweden
- Prohibition under EU & Swedish Law: Raccoons are listed in the EU Invasive Alien Species Regulation, requiring immediate surrender to authorities if discovered in private possession. The Swedish Ordinance (2015:1020) on Invasive Alien Species mirrors these restrictions.
- Permit Requirements: Exemptions exist solely for zoos, research institutions, or wildlife rehabilitation centers, subject to approval from Naturvårdsverket and county administrative boards (länsstyrelser). Applications demand detailed justification and compliance with biosecurity protocols.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Unauthorized possession violates the Environmental Code (Chapter 29, Section 7), triggering administrative fines or prosecution. The 2026 amendments to the Species Protection Ordinance further tighten enforcement, including mandatory reporting of suspected illegal ownership.