Many Georgia residents find raccoons adorable and wonder if they could make good pets, especially after spotting these clever masked creatures rummaging through their garbage or playing in their yards.
The appeal is understandable – raccoons are intelligent, dexterous, and undeniably cute with their distinctive markings and playful behavior.
It is not legal to keep a raccoon as a pet in Georgia without special permits, which are rarely granted to private individuals. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources strictly regulates raccoon ownership and classifies these animals as wild species that require professional handling and care.
Before you dismiss the idea entirely, understanding the specific laws, permit processes, and alternatives can help you make an informed decision about exotic pet ownership in Georgia.
You’ll also learn about the serious responsibilities and health risks involved, plus discover which unusual pets you can legally own in the state.
Legal Status of Raccoon Ownership in Georgia
You cannot legally own a raccoon as a pet in Georgia under normal circumstances. Georgia classifies raccoons as native wild animals, which means they receive protection under state wildlife laws.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) enforces these regulations. They control all permits related to keeping wild animals in captivity.
Wild Animal License Requirements
The only legal way to possess a raccoon is through a Wild Animal License. However, these licenses target commercial or scientific purposes, not personal pet ownership.
You must meet strict requirements to qualify:
- USDA-licensed breeder source: Your raccoon must come from a federally licensed breeder
- Separate housing facility: You need a secure enclosure away from your home
- Veterinary care plan: A licensed vet experienced with raccoons must provide ongoing care
- Business purpose: You need a commercial reason like public exhibition
Application Process
You must submit a detailed application to the DNR’s Special Permit Unit. The department will inspect your facility before approval.
The DNR can deny your application if they find safety concerns or inadequate animal care provisions.
Penalties for Illegal Ownership
Owning a raccoon without proper permits is a misdemeanor in Georgia. You face up to $1,000 in fines and 12 months in jail.
The DNR will immediately confiscate any illegally held raccoons. Your animal may be relocated to a licensed facility or euthanized.
Taking raccoons from the wild is strictly prohibited and carries additional wildlife violation charges.
Permit Requirements and Restrictions
You need a special permit from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to legally own a raccoon in Georgia. The state does not allow raccoon ownership without this official permit.
Key Requirements:
- Captive-bred animals only – You cannot capture wild raccoons
- Veterinary health certificate – Your raccoon must pass health inspections
- Secure enclosure standards – Your housing must meet specific size and safety rules
- Regular inspections – Officials can check your setup at any time
The permit application process involves detailed paperwork about your experience with exotic animals. You must prove you can provide proper care and housing.
Feeding Restrictions:
You cannot feed your raccoon certain foods that might harm local wildlife populations. Raw meat and fish require special handling to prevent disease spread.
Interaction Limits:
Your raccoon cannot have contact with wild animals. This prevents disease transmission and protects native wildlife populations.
Housing Standards:
The enclosure must be escape-proof with minimum space requirements. Indoor and outdoor access areas are typically required for the animal’s wellbeing.
Annual Renewals:
Permit costs range from $20-45 per year in most states with similar programs. Georgia follows comparable pricing structures for exotic animal permits.
Violations can result in permit revocation and animal confiscation. The state takes these regulations seriously to protect public health and safety.
Responsibilities and Risks of Owning a Raccoon
Owning a raccoon requires significant daily commitment and specialized care. You must provide a large, secure enclosure that prevents escapes and protects your neighborhood.
Daily Care Requirements:
- Fresh water and specialized diet
- Mental stimulation and enrichment activities
- Regular cage cleaning and maintenance
- 24/7 supervision when outside enclosure
Health Risks You Face:
Raccoons carry serious diseases that can spread to humans. Rabies poses the greatest threat, as no approved rabies vaccine exists for pet raccoons.
Other dangerous diseases include:
- Raccoon roundworm – causes severe neurological damage
- Leptospirosis – kidney and liver infection
- Salmonella – digestive illness
- Canine distemper – spreads to dogs
Financial Responsibilities:
Exotic veterinarians charge higher fees than regular vets. Emergency care can cost thousands of dollars. You need liability insurance since raccoons can cause property damage or injuries.
Legal Consequences:
Illegal ownership leads to serious penalties including hefty fines and animal confiscation. You become liable for any damage or injuries your raccoon causes to others.
Behavioral Challenges:
Raccoons remain wild animals despite captive breeding. They become aggressive during mating season and destroy household items with their dexterous paws. Adult raccoons often reject human handling and may attack without warning.
Alternative Legal Exotic Pets in Georgia
Since raccoons are not legal pets in Georgia, you have many other exotic options to consider. Georgia operates on a permitted species list, making several unique animals available for ownership.
Small Mammals
Sugar gliders and hedgehogs are popular choices for exotic pet owners. Sugar gliders are social creatures that bond closely with their owners. Hedgehogs are quiet, low-maintenance pets that work well in apartments.
Exotic Cats
You can own certain exotic cat breeds in Georgia. However, most exotic cat hybrids like savannah cats are not legal in the state. Always check current regulations before purchasing any feline.
Reptiles and Birds
Georgia allows many reptile species including certain snakes, lizards, and turtles. Various bird species are also permitted, though you should verify specific breeds with state authorities.
Important Requirements
All exotic pets require proper permits and documentation. You must provide appropriate housing, diet, and veterinary care for any exotic animal. Some animals need special vaccinations or health certificates.
Before You Buy
Contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources before acquiring any exotic pet. Laws change frequently, and penalties for illegal ownership include fines and animal confiscation. Research the specific needs of your chosen pet thoroughly, as exotic animals often require specialized care that differs greatly from traditional pets.
