Is it legal to own a raccoon in Rhode Island?
The short answer
No. Rhode Island lists the raccoon (Procyon lotor) as a native mammal whose possession as a pet is prohibited; it's restricted to specified institutions, not private owners. As a rabies-vector species, keeping one isn't permitted.
What Rhode Island law says
Under RIGL Chapter 4-18 and DEM rule 250-RICR-40-05-3, native mammals like the raccoon are barred from private possession and limited to institutions listed in §3.7(C); the raccoon is expressly named among prohibited native mammals in Appendix A.
Which agency regulates raccoons in Rhode Island
Rhode Island DEM, Division of Agriculture / Fish & Wildlife is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in Rhode Island.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership. Institutions identified in §3.7(C) (e.g., research, licensed facilities) only.
Penalties for owning a raccoon illegally
Unlawful possession carries penalties under RIGL 4-18, including seizure; rabies protocols apply.
Local city and county rules
Local ordinances may add restrictions; none allow private raccoon-keeping.
Legal alternatives in Rhode Island
- Sugar Glider in Rhode Island — 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 pet raccoon in Rhode Island?
No — it's a prohibited native mammal reserved for approved institutions.
What about a raccoon I rescued?
Turn it over to a licensed rehabilitator; personal possession isn't allowed.
Sources
More animals in Rhode Island
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Rhode Island?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Rhode Island?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Rhode Island?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island DEM, Division of Agriculture / Fish & Wildlife and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.