Is it legal to own a raccoon in Massachusetts?
The short answer
No. Massachusetts flips the usual structure: only species on the 321 CMR 9.01 exemption list may be kept without a license, and raccoons aren't on it. MassWildlife's captivity licenses don't cover pets.
What Massachusetts law says
M.G.L. c. 131 §23 and 321 CMR 9.01 create a whitelist; everything off-list needs a license issued for institutional purposes only. Raccoons, as rabies-vector natives, have no pathway.
Which agency regulates raccoons in Massachusetts
MassWildlife (Division of Fisheries and Wildlife) is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in Massachusetts.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership.
Penalties for owning a raccoon illegally
Criminal penalties under c. 131 with confiscation; rabies-vector protocols apply.
Local city and county rules
Statewide framework controls.
Legal alternatives in Massachusetts
- Sugar Glider in Massachusetts — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep a raccoon I found in Massachusetts?
No — Massachusetts is strict even about temporary possession. Call a licensed rehabilitator.
Sources
More animals in Massachusetts
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Massachusetts?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Massachusetts?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Massachusetts?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Massachusetts 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 MassWildlife (Division of Fisheries and Wildlife) and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.