Can You Legally Own a Raccoon in Maryland? Laws & Permits

Maryland law does not allow private individuals to own raccoons as pets without a special permit. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) classifies raccoons as wildlife under Natural Resources Article § 10-201, and possession requires a Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit or a Captive Wildlife Permit—both rarely granted to non-professionals.

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1. Governing Agencies & Codes

Maryland regulates raccoon ownership through:

• Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR): Enforces Natural Resources Article § 10-201 and COMAR 08.03.08 (Wildlife Regulations).
• Maryland Department of Health (MDH): Oversees rabies control under Health-General Article § 18-319 and COMAR 10.06.01.
• Local County Ordinances: Some counties (e.g., Montgomery, Howard) impose additional restrictions on exotic pets.

2. Key Legal Definitions

• Wildlife (Natural Resources § 10-201): Any undomesticated animal native to Maryland, including raccoons.
• Exotic Pet: A non-native or non-domesticated animal kept in captivity. Raccoons fall under this category.
• Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit (COMAR 08.03.08.07): Required for individuals treating injured or orphaned wildlife. Not a pet permit.
• Captive Wildlife Permit (COMAR 08.03.08.03): Issued for educational, scientific, or commercial purposes only—not personal ownership.

3. Federal Overlay

• Lacey Act (16 U.S.C. §§ 3371-3378): Prohibits interstate transport of illegally possessed wildlife.
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): Requires a Class C Exhibitor License if raccoons are used for public display (e.g., petting zoos).

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1. Determine Eligibility

Maryland does not issue permits for raccoons as pets. Exceptions exist only for:

• Licensed wildlife rehabilitators (treating injured/orphaned raccoons for release).
• Educational or scientific institutions (e.g., zoos, research facilities).
• Commercial breeders (with a Captive Wildlife Permit).

2. Apply for a Permit (If Eligible)

If you qualify for an exception, follow these steps:

A. Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit

1. Complete DNR Form 500-18: Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit Application.
2. Submit Proof of Training: Certification from a recognized wildlife rehabilitation program (e.g., International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council).
3. Pass a Facility Inspection: DNR must approve your housing, sanitation, and safety protocols.
4. Pay Fees:
• Application Fee: $25 (non-refundable).
• Annual Renewal Fee: $50.
5. Wait Time: 4–8 weeks for processing.

B. Captive Wildlife Permit

1. Complete DNR Form 500-17: Captive Wildlife Permit Application.
2. Provide Justification: Explain the educational, scientific, or commercial purpose (e.g., zoo exhibit, research).
3. Submit Facility Plans: Detailed diagrams of enclosures, escape prevention, and veterinary care access.
4. Pay Fees:
• Application Fee: $100.
• Annual Renewal Fee: $200.
5. Wait Time: 6–12 weeks for processing.

3. Health & Safety Compliance

• Rabies Vaccination: Maryland does not recognize raccoon rabies vaccines for pets. Unvaccinated raccoons must be euthanized if they bite a human (Health-General § 18-319).
• Quarantine: Any raccoon acquired from out-of-state must undergo a 30-day quarantine at an approved facility.
• Microchipping: Required for all permitted raccoons (COMAR 08.03.08.03).

4. Local County Restrictions

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1. Illegal Possession Consequences

• Fines: Up to $1,000 per violation (Natural Resources § 10-205).
• Misdemeanor Charges: Up to 90 days in jail for repeat offenses.
• Confiscation: DNR might seize the raccoon and place it in a licensed facility.
• Rabies Exposure: If an unpermitted raccoon bites someone, mandatory euthanasia and testing apply (Health-General § 18-319).

2. Exceptions (Rare Cases)

• Pre-Existing Pets: Raccoons owned before October 1, 2002 (when the law changed) may be grandfathered in if registered with DNR.
• Temporary Possession: Wildlife rehabilitators may keep raccoons only for treatment and release.
• USDA-Licensed Facilities: Zoos or sanctuaries with a Class C Exhibitor License can house raccoons.

3. Common Compliance Mistakes

• Assuming "Pet" Status: Raccoons are not domesticated and are treated as wildlife.
• Skipping Rabies Protocols: Even permitted raccoons cannot be vaccinated like dogs or cats.
• Ignoring Local Laws: Some counties ban raccoons entirely, regardless of state permits.
• Improper Housing: Enclosures must prevent escape and meet DNR minimum size requirements (e.g., 8’ x 8’ x 6’ for one raccoon).

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### Can I keep a baby raccoon I found in the wild?

No. Maryland law prohibits keeping orphaned or injured wildlife without a Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit. You must contact a licensed rehabilitator or the DNR Wildlife Hotline (1-877-463-6497). Keeping it without a permit is a misdemeanor punishable by fines.

### What happens if my pet raccoon bites someone?

The raccoon must be euthanized and tested for rabies (Health-General § 18-319). You may also face fines up to $1,000 and criminal charges for illegal possession. No exceptions exist for unpermitted raccoons.

### Are there any legal alternatives to owning a raccoon in Maryland?

Yes. Consider:

• Adopting a domesticated pet (e.g., ferret, which is legal with a permit).
• Volunteering at a wildlife rehab center to work with raccoons legally.
• Visiting a USDA-licensed sanctuary (e.g., The Wildlife Center at Tri-State Bird Rescue).

### How long does it take to get a Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit?

Processing takes 4–8 weeks, depending on:

• Completeness of your application.
• Facility inspection scheduling.
• Background checks (DNR verifies no prior wildlife violations).

### Can I move a raccoon from another state into Maryland?

No. Interstate transport of raccoons is illegal without:

• A federal permit (USDA APHIS).
• A Maryland Captive Wildlife Permit.
• A 30-day quarantine at an approved facility.

### What should I do if I see someone illegally keeping a raccoon?

Report it to:

• Maryland DNR Police: 1-800-628-9944.
• Local Animal Control: Check your county’s non-emergency police line.
• Anonymous Tip Line: DNR Poacher Hotline.

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✅ Action Plan for Legal Compliance

1. Verify Eligibility:
• Are you a licensed rehabilitator, educator, or commercial breeder?
• If not, raccoons are illegal as pets in Maryland.
2. Check Local Laws:
• Confirm your county’s exotic pet rules (e.g., Montgomery bans all exotics).
3. Apply for a Permit (If Eligible):
• Download DNR Form 500-17 (Captive Wildlife) or 500-18 (Rehabilitation).
• Submit facility plans, training certificates, and fees.
4. Prepare for Inspection:
• Ensure enclosures meet DNR size and safety standards.
• Install escape-proof locks and microchips.
5. Maintain Records:
• Keep veterinary logs, feeding schedules, and permit renewals up to date.

📞 Official Contacts & Resources

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute formal legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently; consult the Maryland DNR or a licensed attorney for current guidance.