Is it legal to own a raccoon in Missouri?
The short answer
Yes, with a permit. Missouri allows captive-bred raccoons under the Department of Conservation's wildlife hobby/breeder permitting for Class I wildlife. Wild-caught animals can't be kept as pets.
What Missouri law says
The Wildlife Code of Missouri (3 CSR 10) regulates holding native wildlife; raccoons fall under Class I wildlife that may be held with the appropriate MDC permit, enclosure standards, and records.
Which agency regulates raccoons in Missouri
Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in Missouri.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
Yes — the Class I Wildlife Breeder/Hobby Permit, issued by Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) (~$50/year (verify current fee)).
Penalties and enforcement
Unpermitted possession violates the Wildlife Code (misdemeanor) with confiscation; rabies-vector rules apply.
Local city and county rules
St. Louis, Kansas City, and other municipalities restrict wild animals locally.
Legal alternatives in Missouri
- Sugar Glider in Missouri — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
How do I keep a raccoon legally in Missouri?
Get the MDC Class I wildlife permit before acquiring a captive-bred animal from a licensed source, and meet the enclosure standards.
Can I keep a raccoon I found?
No — wild-taken animals go to licensed rehabilitators.
Sources
More animals in Missouri
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Missouri?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Missouri?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Missouri?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Missouri 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 Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.