No, Tennessee prohibits private ownership of raccoons under the Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) Regulations, classifying them as Class II wildlife. Exceptions exist only for licensed wildlife rehabilitators or educational facilities, with permits reviewed annually by the TWRA. Local ordinances in counties like Shelby or Davidson may impose additional restrictions, including mandatory microchipping for permitted species.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in Tennessee
- Permit Requirement: Only individuals with a Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit or Educational Use Permit issued by the TWRA may possess raccoons, subject to annual renewal and inspection.
- Prohibited Acts: Keeping raccoons as pets, for commercial trade, or without proper documentation violates TWRA Code § 70-4-401, punishable by fines up to $2,500 and confiscation.
- Local Overrides: Municipalities like Nashville or Knoxville may enforce stricter rules, including mandatory veterinary health certificates or zoning approvals for permitted facilities.
Recent 2026 TWRA draft amendments propose expanding permit denials for individuals with prior wildlife violations, tightening oversight on rehabilitators. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Division collaborates with TWRA to monitor permitted facilities, ensuring compliance with rabies vaccination protocols and enclosure standards. Violations trigger immediate permit suspension and potential criminal charges under Tennessee Code Annotated § 70-8-104.