Is it legal to own a raccoon in North Dakota?
The short answer
No. North Dakota flatly prohibits keeping raccoons (and skunks) in captivity, and they may not be imported into the state for any purpose except by licensed zoos. The state veterinarian can serve notice and confiscate the animal, placing it in a zoo or having it humanely destroyed.
What North Dakota law says
NDCC § 36-01-08.4 and NDAC 48.1-09-01-02(5) prohibit keeping skunks or raccoons in captivity and bar their importation; only USDA/APHIS-licensed zoos are exempt.
Which agency regulates raccoons in North Dakota
North Dakota Department of Agriculture - State Board of Animal Health is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in North Dakota.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership. Zoos licensed by USDA-APHIS Animal Care.
Penalties for owning a raccoon illegally
Confiscation and destruction or zoo placement of the animal; infraction charges and civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation under Board of Animal Health rules.
Local city and county rules
No local option exists - the rabies-driven state ban applies in every North Dakota city and county.
Legal alternatives in North Dakota
- Sugar Glider in North Dakota — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Why does North Dakota single out raccoons and skunks?
They are the state's primary rabies-vector species; the Board of Animal Health treats captive possession as a public-health threat.
Sources
More animals in North Dakota
- Is it legal to own a monkey in North Dakota?
- Is it legal to own a serval in North Dakota?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in North Dakota?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in North Dakota 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 North Dakota Department of Agriculture - State Board of Animal Health and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.