If you’ve ever been charmed by a raccoon’s masked face and clever paws, you might wonder whether you could legally bring one home as a pet in Wyoming.
Many people fall in love with these intelligent creatures after watching viral videos or encountering them in the wild, only to discover that raccoon ownership laws vary dramatically from state to state.
Yes, it is legal to own a raccoon as a pet in Wyoming, making it one of only 16 states that allow raccoon ownership. However, legal doesn’t necessarily mean simple or recommended. Wyoming’s laws come with specific requirements that you must understand before considering raccoon ownership.
While the legal framework exists for raccoon ownership, the reality involves complex permit processes, significant financial commitments, and unique challenges that most traditional pet owners never face.
Understanding Wyoming’s specific regulations, the practical responsibilities of raccoon care, and alternative exotic pet options can help you make an informed decision about whether this path aligns with your lifestyle and expectations.
Legal Status Of Raccoon Ownership In Wyoming
You can legally own a raccoon as a pet in Wyoming. Wyoming is one of only 19 states that allows raccoon ownership under state law.
Important Restrictions Apply
You cannot import raccoons from other states into Wyoming. Only raccoons bred within Wyoming are allowed as pets.
Permit Requirements
Wyoming requires you to obtain a permit for private raccoon ownership. You must apply for this permit before getting a raccoon.
Local City Restrictions
Many Wyoming cities ban exotic pets within city limits. Rock Springs Animal Control warns that owning raccoons is illegal within their city boundaries.
Key Legal Points:
- State Level: Legal with permit
- Import Rules: No out-of-state raccoons allowed
- Local Laws: Many cities prohibit ownership
- Breeding: Must be Wyoming-born raccoons only
Before You Decide
Check your local city and county laws first. State permission does not override local bans. Contact your local animal control office to verify current rules in your area.
Federal Oversight
Wyoming works with federal agencies like the USDA to enforce exotic animal laws. This adds another layer of regulation you must follow.
Permit Requirements And Restrictions
You need a permit from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to legally own a raccoon. Wyoming allows raccoons as pets with proper permits from the state wildlife agency.
The permit application requires proof of legal possession. You must show where you obtained the raccoon and verify it came from a legal source.
Housing Requirements:
- Secure enclosure to prevent escape
- Adequate space for the raccoon’s needs
- Protection from weather and predators
You must follow strict care guidelines set by the state. These rules cover feeding, veterinary care, and daily maintenance of your raccoon.
Key Restrictions:
- Annual permit renewal required
- Regular inspections may occur
- No breeding without additional permits
- Cannot release into the wild
Your local city or county may have additional rules that override state laws. Check with your local government before getting a raccoon.
The permit typically costs between $20-45 per year. You must renew it annually to maintain legal ownership.
You cannot capture wild raccoons in Wyoming. The raccoon must come from a licensed breeder or legal source outside the state.
Veterinary records are required. You need documentation showing regular health checkups and vaccinations.
Transportation restrictions apply when moving your raccoon. You need proper documentation during travel within or outside Wyoming.
Violations can result in fines and removal of your raccoon. The state takes these regulations seriously to protect both animals and public safety.
Responsibilities And Risks Of Owning A Raccoon
Owning a raccoon requires significant daily commitment and specialized care. You must provide two meals per day with a varied diet including poultry, fish, eggs, 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 and mischievous pets. They will knock over furniture, chew bedding and clothing, and use their dexterous paws to break through latches and secured areas.
Health Risks pose serious concerns for you and your family. Raccoons carry various diseases including rabies, canine distemper, leptospirosis, and raccoon roundworm that transmit to humans and other pets.
Rabies vaccinations exist for raccoons but are not always fully effective. Parasites like roundworm create additional health hazards in your home environment.
Space and Housing Challenges:
- Need large areas to climb, explore, and roam
- Perform poorly in cages or small rooms
- Require secure outdoor enclosures
- Demand constant supervision when loose
You face legal consequences if your raccoon bites or scratches someone. Problematic behavior often results in authorities confiscating and euthanizing the animal.
Finding qualified veterinary care proves difficult since most vets lack experience with raccoon medicine and dietary needs.
Alternative Legal Exotic Pets In Wyoming
If you want an exotic pet in Wyoming but can’t own a raccoon in certain cities, you have other options. The state allows many unique animals as pets under state law.
Popular Legal Exotic Pets:
• Hedgehogs – Small, quiet, and easy to care for
• Sugar gliders – Social marsupials that bond with owners
• Ferrets – Playful and intelligent companions
• Chinchillas – Soft fur and gentle nature
• Bearded dragons – Calm reptiles that enjoy handling
• Ball pythons – Docile snakes perfect for beginners
You can also own many bird species like parrots and cockatiels. Some areas allow primates with proper permits and licenses.
Important Legal Requirements
Wyoming allows various wildlife species under state law. However, your local city or county may have stricter rules.
You must check your local ordinances before getting any exotic pet. What’s legal at the state level might be banned in your town.
Research Before You Buy
Some exotic species can harm local ecosystems if released into the wild. Never release exotic pets outdoors.
Consider the animal’s specific needs for housing, diet, and veterinary care. Exotic pets often require specialized vets and expensive equipment.
Check if you need permits or licenses for your chosen pet. Some animals require annual renewals and inspections.
