No, owning a raccoon as a pet is illegal in the United Kingdom under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 and the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) Regulations 2018. The species is classified as an invasive alien, posing ecological and disease risks, with enforcement delegated to local authorities and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA). Recent 2026 amendments to the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order further restrict private ownership, requiring special licenses for educational or conservation purposes only.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in United Kingdom
- Licensing Mandate: Local councils may issue permits under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, but these are rare and typically limited to zoos, sanctuaries, or research institutions. Private ownership is effectively prohibited.
- Invasive Species Prohibition: The Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement and Permitting) Order 2026 explicitly bans raccoons, aligning with EU and UK biodiversity strategies to prevent ecological disruption.
- Welfare and Custody Enforcement: APHA and local authorities conduct inspections under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, with non-compliance resulting in confiscation, fines, or criminal prosecution under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.