Many Nebraska residents dream of having an unusual pet, but raccoons present a complex legal situation that requires careful consideration. These masked bandits might look adorable, but the state treats them as exotic wildlife with specific regulations.
Yes, it is legal to own a raccoon in Nebraska, but you must obtain a Captive Wildlife Permit from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission first. Nebraska allows raccoon ownership as one of only 19 states that permit these animals as pets. However, owning a raccoon without proper licensing is illegal and can result in serious consequences.
Before you consider bringing a raccoon home, you need to understand the permit process, local restrictions, and significant responsibilities involved. Your city or town may have additional rules that prohibit raccoons entirely, and the commitment goes far beyond what most people expect from a typical pet.
Legal Status Of Raccoon Ownership In Nebraska
You can legally own a raccoon in Nebraska, but you must get a permit first. Nebraska requires proper licensing for raccoon ownership due to health and wildlife concerns.
Permit Requirements:
- You must apply for an exotic animal permit
- Background checks may be required
- You need to prove you can care for the animal properly
The state classifies raccoons as exotic animals rather than typical pets. This means they follow different rules than dogs or cats.
Key Legal Points:
- Legal with permit: You can own a raccoon if licensed
- Illegal without permit: Owning without proper paperwork breaks the law
- Health concerns: Laws exist to prevent disease spread
- Wildlife protection: Rules help protect local animal populations
Nebraska is one of 19 states that allow pet raccoon ownership with proper permits. The other states include Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, and Texas.
You should contact Nebraska’s Department of Agriculture or wildlife officials before getting a raccoon. They can tell you exactly what permits you need and how to apply.
The permit process exists because raccoons can carry diseases like rabies. They can also damage property and may not adapt well to home life.
Application Process Typically Includes:
- Completed permit forms
- Proof of proper housing setup
- Veterinary care plans
- Background verification
Local cities or counties might have their own rules too. Check with your local government before applying for a state permit.
Permit Requirements And Restrictions
Nebraska requires a permit to own a raccoon as a pet. You must obtain this permit before bringing a raccoon into your home.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission handles all wildlife permits. You need to apply for an exotic animal permit specifically.
Key permit requirements include:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Complete permit application with personal information
- Pay annual permit fees
- Pass facility inspection
Purchase restrictions are strict. You can only buy raccoons from USDA-licensed breeders within Nebraska. Wild raccoons cannot be captured or kept as pets.
Your raccoon must be captive-bred, not taken from the wild. The breeder must provide proper documentation showing legal breeding operations.
Permit fees typically range from $20-45 per year. These fees help cover administration and inspection costs.
Nebraska limits the number of raccoons per household. Most permits allow up to 3 raccoons maximum per property.
Housing standards must be met before approval:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Enclosure size | Minimum 200 square feet |
| Height | At least 8 feet tall |
| Security | Double-door entry system |
| Shelter | Weather-proof den box |
You must renew your permit annually. Late renewals may result in fines or permit cancellation.
Local city and county laws can override state permits. Check with your local government before applying, as some areas ban raccoon ownership entirely despite state allowances making ownership legal.
Veterinary care requirements include regular health checkups and rabies vaccinations when available.
Responsibilities And Risks Of Owning A Raccoon
Owning a raccoon requires significant daily commitment. You must provide two meals per day with a varied diet including meat, vegetables, and fruits.
Daily Care Requirements:
- Fresh water available at all times
- Large outdoor enclosure with roof protection
- Extensive playtime and mental stimulation
- Raccoon-proofed living spaces
Raccoons are extremely destructive animals. They will knock over furniture, chew bedding, and break through latches with their nimble front paws.
You need substantial space for your raccoon to roam and climb. Small cages or bedrooms cause stress and behavioral problems.
Health Risks Include:
- Rabies exposure – vaccines may not be fully effective
- Raccoon roundworm – dangerous parasite transmission
- Canine distemper – spreads to other pets
- Leptospirosis – bacterial infection risk
Raccoons carry multiple diseases that pose serious health threats to humans and other animals.
Legal consequences exist if proper permits aren’t obtained. Violations can result in fines and animal confiscation.
You become liable for any injuries or property damage your raccoon causes. Raccoons are unpredictable and may bite or scratch visitors.
Finding veterinary care presents challenges. Most vets lack experience treating raccoons as pets.
Financial costs include:
- Initial permits and licensing fees
- Specialized diet requirements
- Large outdoor enclosure construction
- Emergency veterinary bills
Your raccoon may face euthanization if it exhibits aggressive behavior toward humans.
Alternative Legal Exotic Pets In Nebraska
If you’re looking for unique pets beyond traditional dogs and cats, Nebraska offers several legal exotic animal options. The state has more permissive laws than many others for exotic pet ownership.
Foxes are among the most popular exotic pets you can legally own in Nebraska. Several species of pet fox are legal in Nebraska, though requirements vary by species. Fennec foxes and red foxes are commonly kept as pets.
Small mammals provide excellent alternatives to raccoons. You can legally own ferrets, hedgehogs, and sugar gliders in most areas of Nebraska. These animals require specialized care but make engaging companions.
Reptiles and amphibians offer low-maintenance options. Bearded dragons, ball pythons, and leopard geckos are legal and popular choices. Most non-venomous snakes and lizards are permitted without special permits.
Birds give you colorful, interactive pets. Parrots, cockatoos, and macaws are legal in Nebraska. These intelligent birds can learn to talk and perform tricks.
| Pet Type | Care Level | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|
| Fennec Fox | High | Yes |
| Hedgehog | Medium | No |
| Bearded Dragon | Medium | No |
| Macaw | High | No |
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture regulates exotic animals in private ownership. Always check local county ordinances before acquiring any exotic pet, as municipalities may have additional restrictions.
