No, owning a raccoon as a pet in Wyoming is prohibited under the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Wildlife Code, which classifies raccoons (Procyon lotor) as non-domestic wildlife. Exceptions require a Class II wildlife permit, rarely granted for educational or rehabilitative purposes, not private ownership. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Laramie County Board of Commissioners, further restrict exotic pet ownership to protect native ecosystems.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Wyoming
- Permit Requirement: The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission mandates a Class II wildlife permit for any non-native species interaction, including raccoons, with approval contingent on demonstrated need (e.g., wildlife education). Permits are reviewed annually, and 2026 revisions may tighten criteria for “non-essential” wildlife interactions.
- Prohibited Species List: Raccoons are explicitly listed under Chapter 10 of the Wyoming Wildlife Code as species ineligible for private possession without a rehabilitation or scientific research exemption. Violations incur fines up to $1,000 under W.S. 23-3-302.
- Local Zoning Restrictions: Municipalities like Jackson and Cheyenne impose additional constraints via zoning ordinances. For instance, Jackson’s Wildlife Ordinance 12.05 bans exotic pets in residential zones, aligning with state-level conservation priorities.