No, owning a raccoon in Portugal is prohibited under national wildlife protection laws, as the species is classified as invasive. The Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas (ICNF) enforces these restrictions, aligning with EU Regulation 1143/2014 on invasive alien species. Recent 2026 compliance updates tighten enforcement, requiring permits for exotic pets, which raccoons do not qualify for.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Portugal
- Invasive Species Ban: Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are listed under ICNF’s Portaria n.º 202/2017, banning their private ownership without exception.
- Permit Requirements: Even for research or educational purposes, permits from ICNF are mandatory, and approval is rare due to ecological risks.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violations incur fines up to €3,740.80, confiscation of the animal, and potential criminal liability under Decreto-Lei n.º 124/2017.
Local municipalities may impose additional restrictions, particularly in urban areas where raccoons pose heightened ecological disruption risks.