Is it legal to own a raccoon in New Jersey?
The short answer
No. New Jersey classifies raccoons among potentially dangerous species for which Fish & Wildlife does not issue individual hobby permits. Rabies-vector status seals it.
What New Jersey law says
N.J.A.C. 7:25-4 requires permits for exotic and nongame species; 'potentially dangerous' species — including native carnivores like raccoons — are excluded from hobby permitting.
Which agency regulates raccoons in New Jersey
NJ Fish & Wildlife (Exotic and Nongame Wildlife Permits) is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in New Jersey.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership.
Penalties for owning a raccoon illegally
Civil and criminal penalties with seizure; rabies protocols apply.
Local city and county rules
Statewide permit scheme controls.
Legal alternatives in New Jersey
- Sugar Glider in New Jersey — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get any New Jersey permit for a raccoon?
No — hobby permits exclude potentially dangerous species, and raccoons are classified as such.
Sources
More animals in New Jersey
- Is it legal to own a monkey in New Jersey?
- Is it legal to own a serval in New Jersey?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in New Jersey?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in New Jersey 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 NJ Fish & Wildlife (Exotic and Nongame Wildlife Permits) and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.