Many Delaware residents dream of keeping unique pets, but raccoons present a complex legal situation that requires careful consideration.
These masked bandits might look adorable, but their wild nature and specific legal status make them challenging companions.
No, you cannot legally own a raccoon as a pet in Delaware without proper permits, and Delaware explicitly prohibits keeping native wildlife as pets. The state considers raccoons native wildlife, which means special rules apply that most pet owners cannot meet.
Understanding Delaware’s exotic pet laws will help you make informed decisions about legal alternatives and avoid costly violations.
You’ll discover what permits might be available, the serious responsibilities involved, and which exotic pets you can legally keep in the First State.
Legal Status of Raccoon Ownership in Delaware
Delaware law makes it illegal to own raccoons as pets. Raccoons fall under strict regulations that classify them as native wildlife requiring permits.
The Division of Fish & Wildlife has clear rules about native animals. You cannot own, buy, sell, or bring raccoons into Delaware without proper permits.
Rabies Vector Species Classification
Raccoons belong to a special group called “rabies vector species.” This category includes:
- Gray foxes
- Coyotes
- Groundhogs
- Red foxes
- Opossums
- Skunks
Animals in this group cannot be possessed, imported, sold, or offered for sale under any circumstances.
Permit Exceptions Don’t Apply
Some native wildlife can be owned with written proof from other states. However, this exception does not cover raccoons because of their rabies risk status.
Rehabilitation Requirements
Only licensed wildlife rehabilitators can legally handle injured raccoons. You need special permits from both state and federal agencies to care for raccoons temporarily.
Licensed veterinarians can treat injured raccoons without permits. They must either release the animals back to the wild or transfer them to permitted rehabilitators after treatment.
Penalties for Violations
Breaking these wildlife laws can result in fines and legal consequences. The state takes raccoon ownership violations seriously due to public health and safety concerns.
Permit Requirements and Restrictions
In Delaware, you cannot get a permit to own a raccoon as a pet. Raccoons are classified as rabies vector species, which makes them completely prohibited.
The state groups raccoons with other high-risk animals like skunks, foxes, and coyotes. These animals cannot be “possessed, imported, sold, or offered for sale” under any circumstances.
Animals banned alongside raccoons:
- Gray fox
- Red fox
- Coyotes
- Groundhogs
- Opossums
- Skunks
Even if you found a raccoon from another state, you still cannot bring it into Delaware. The rabies vector species rule blocks all ownership options.
Wildlife rehabilitation is different. You can get permits to help injured raccoons if you plan to release them back to the wild. These permits require specific training and facilities.
Licensed veterinarians can treat raccoons without permits. However, they must either release the animals or send them to licensed rehabilitators after treatment.
The permit process for rehabilitation involves:
- Application through Delaware’s Division of Fish & Wildlife
- Proof of proper facilities
- Training requirements
- Regular inspections
Pet ownership permits do not exist for raccoons in Delaware. The state considers them too dangerous due to rabies risks and their wild nature.
If you want an exotic pet, look into animals that are actually legal in Delaware with proper permits.
Responsibilities and Risks of Owning a Raccoon
Owning a raccoon requires significant daily care and attention. You must provide specialized food, secure housing, and constant supervision.
Health Risks You Face:
- Rabies exposure – Raccoons are common carriers of rabies, a deadly viral disease
- Roundworm parasites – Can cause serious illness in humans
- Canine distemper – Spreads to other pets in your home
- Leptospirosis – Bacterial infection affecting kidneys and liver
You need to find exotic animal veterinarians for medical care. Regular vets often cannot treat raccoons properly.
Daily Care Requirements:
| Need | Frequency | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Feeding | 2-3 times daily | Specialized diet, not pet food |
| Exercise | Daily | Large secure area required |
| Mental stimulation | Constant | Raccoons are very intelligent |
| Cleaning | Daily | They create significant mess |
Raccoons become destructive as they mature. They will tear apart furniture, open cabinets, and climb on everything.
Legal Responsibilities:
You must maintain proper permits and follow state regulations. Capturing raccoons from the wild is almost universally prohibited and illegal.
Your homeowner’s insurance may not cover raccoon-related damage or injuries. Check your policy before getting a raccoon.
Raccoons are nocturnal and very loud at night. They can disturb neighbors and violate noise ordinances.
Alternative Legal Exotic Pets in Delaware
If you’re interested in exotic pets but raccoons aren’t the right fit, Delaware offers many legal alternatives. The state allows 21 exotic animals without permits according to the Delaware Department of Agriculture.
Small Mammals You Can Own:
- Sugar gliders
- Hedgehogs
- Ferrets
- Chinchillas
- Guinea pigs
These animals make great companions and require less space than larger exotic pets. Sugar gliders are social creatures that need pairs or groups to stay happy.
Reptile Options:
- Bearded dragons
- Leopard geckos
- Ball pythons
- Corn snakes
Reptiles often appeal to people who want low-maintenance pets. They don’t need daily interaction like mammals do.
Birds as Exotic Pets:
- Cockatiels
- Conures
- Lovebirds
- Canaries
Birds offer personality and intelligence without the complex care needs of wild animals. Many species can learn to talk and form strong bonds with their owners.
Special Considerations:
You must check local city and county laws before getting any exotic pet. Some townships may have stricter rules than state law allows.
Delaware classifies exotic animals as live wild mammals or reptiles not native to the state. Each type has different care requirements, costs, and legal responsibilities.
Permit Requirements:
Some exotic species need permits from the Delaware Department of Agriculture. Contact them directly to verify requirements for your chosen pet.
