Is it legal to own a raccoon in New Mexico?
The short answer
No. New Mexico's Director's Species Importation List places the raccoon (any type) in Group IV - dangerous/undesirable/protected - which is prohibited for the general public to import. As a state-protected furbearer, there's no ordinary pet pathway.
What New Mexico law says
Under 19.35.7 NMAC, importing any live non-domesticated animal requires a director's permit; the Director's Species Importation List classifies Procyon (raccoon, any type) as Group IV, importation of which is prohibited for the general public and allowed only for scientific, zoological, or similar uses.
Which agency regulates raccoons in New Mexico
New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in New Mexico.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership. Group IV importation may be allowed for scientific study, zoological display, or a qualified expert - not household pets.
Penalties for owning a raccoon illegally
Unlawful importation/possession penalties with seizure; state and county health rules on sylvatic carnivores apply.
Local city and county rules
Statute 77-18-1 also lets the health department regulate raccoons; counties and cities may bar them outright.
Legal alternatives in New Mexico
- Sugar Glider in New Mexico — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Can I import a pet raccoon to New Mexico?
No - raccoons are Group IV on the importation list, prohibited for the general public.
Is a raccoon protected in New Mexico?
Yes - the importation list flags it as a state-protected species, reinforcing the no-pet outcome.
Sources
- NM Director's Species Importation List (Raccoon - Group IV)
- 19.35.7 NMAC - Importation of Live Non-Domesticated Animals
More animals in New Mexico
- Is it legal to own a monkey in New Mexico?
- Is it legal to own a serval in New Mexico?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in New Mexico?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in New Mexico 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 New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.