No, owning a raccoon as a pet is illegal in West Virginia without a specialized permit, as the species is classified as a nuisance wildlife species under the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) regulations. Exemptions exist only for educational or rehabilitative purposes, requiring approval from the WVDNR Wildlife Resources Section. Recent 2026 amendments to W.Va. Code § 20-2-5 further restrict private ownership to mitigate disease risks like rabies and distemper.
Key Regulations for Owning a Raccoon in West Virginia
- Permit Requirement: A Class II Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit or Scientific Collecting Permit is mandatory for any non-exempt raccoon possession, issued solely by the WVDNR Wildlife Resources Section. Permits are reviewed annually, with 2026 introducing stricter biosecurity protocols.
- Prohibited Acts: Transporting, breeding, or housing raccoons without authorization constitutes a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $1,000 and potential confiscation under W.Va. Code § 20-7-11.
- Disease Control: Raccoons must undergo health screenings for zoonotic diseases prior to permit approval, aligning with the 2026 WVDNR Wildlife Health Policy updates. Failure to comply results in immediate permit revocation.