Is it legal to own a raccoon in Arizona?
The short answer
No. Arizona restricts the entire order Carnivora as restricted live wildlife, and raccoons are named in the rule. Special licenses exist for education, research, and exhibition — not pets.
What Arizona law says
A.A.C. R12-4-406 lists all species of Carnivora — naming raccoons, foxes, skunks, weasels, and others — as restricted live wildlife that cannot be possessed without a special license Arizona doesn't issue for pets.
Which agency regulates raccoons in Arizona
Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in Arizona.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership.
Penalties for owning a raccoon illegally
Class 2 misdemeanor possession charges, seizure, and fines; AZGFD enforces actively.
Local city and county rules
Statewide rule controls; local rules only add restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get any Arizona permit for a pet raccoon?
No. AZGFD special licenses cover education, research, exhibition, and rehabilitation — there is no pet category.
What if I move to Arizona with a raccoon?
Importation and possession are both barred; there's no grandfather provision for restricted species pets.
Sources
More animals in Arizona
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Arizona?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Arizona?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Arizona?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Arizona page, or compare every state on the pet raccoon laws by state page.
Last verified 2026-07-03 against the cited primary sources. This is a research directory, not legal advice — confirm current rules with Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.