It is strictly regulated.
Owning a raccoon in Iceland is prohibited under the Regulation on the Protection of Wild Animals and Birds (No. 606/2013) and the Animal Welfare Act (No. 15/2023), which classify raccoons as invasive species. The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) enforces these restrictions, requiring permits for exotic pets that do not meet strict criteria. Recent 2026 amendments to the Invasive Species Regulation further tighten controls, aligning with EU biosecurity protocols to prevent ecological disruption.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Iceland
- Permit Denial: MAST automatically denies permits for raccoons due to their designation as Category 1 invasive species under the Environmental Agency of Iceland’s 2024 Invasive Species List.
- Quarantine Protocols: Even if hypothetically permitted, imported raccoons face mandatory 30-day quarantine at the Reykjavík Animal Quarantine Facility, with costs borne by the owner.
- Wildlife Protection Overrides: The Nature Conservation Act (No. 60/2013) prioritizes native ecosystems, making private ownership legally indefensible regardless of captivity status. Violations incur fines up to 5 million ISK or imprisonment under Article 112 of the Penal Code.