Is it legal to own a raccoon in Oregon?
The short answer
No. Oregon prohibits holding native wildlife like raccoons as pets; ODFW's captivity permits serve rehabilitation and institutional purposes only.
What Oregon law says
OAR ch. 635 wildlife-holding rules bar private pet possession of native furbearers; rabies-vector handling rules add teeth.
Which agency regulates raccoons in Oregon
Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in Oregon.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership.
Penalties for owning a raccoon illegally
Misdemeanor possession with seizure; rabies protocols apply.
Local city and county rules
Statewide framework controls.
Legal alternatives in Oregon
- Sugar Glider in Oregon — 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 Oregon?
No — contact an ODFW-licensed rehabilitator.
Sources
More animals in Oregon
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Oregon?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Oregon?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Oregon?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Oregon 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 Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.