No, owning a raccoon as a pet in Virginia is prohibited under state wildlife regulations unless you qualify for an educational or scientific permit. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) classifies raccoons as non-domestic wildlife, and unauthorized possession violates § 29.1-100 of the Code of Virginia. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Fairfax County Police Department’s Animal Control Division, further prohibit private ownership, with penalties including fines up to $2,500 and confiscation under § 5-48 of the county code.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Virginia
- Permit Requirement: Only individuals with a valid DWR permit for educational, scientific, or rehabilitative purposes may legally possess a raccoon. Applications require proof of expertise and facility compliance with DWR standards.
- Prohibited Possession: Private ownership for pets is explicitly banned under DWR’s Wildlife Importation and Possession Regulations (4VAC15-30-10 et seq.), with no grandfathering provisions for pre-existing ownership.
- Local Enforcement: Municipalities like Arlington and Alexandria impose additional restrictions, including mandatory reporting of wildlife interactions and potential euthanasia of unpermitted animals under local nuisance ordinances.