Is it legal to own a raccoon in South Dakota?
The short answer
Yes, mostly. South Dakota's nondomestic-mammal permit rule covers Felidae, Canidae, Ursidae, Mustelidae, Hyaenidae, hoofstock, elephants, and primates - raccoons (family Procyonidae) are not on the list, so no Animal Industry Board possession permit is required. The animal should be captive-bred and legally sourced; capturing a wild South Dakota raccoon is a separate Game, Fish & Parks violation, and imports need an entry permit and health certificate.
What South Dakota law says
ARSD 12:68:18:03 enumerates the mammal families requiring a possession permit and omits Procyonidae; imported animals still need an entry permit and certificate of veterinary inspection under SDCL 40-14-2. GFP rules bar taking raccoons live from the wild.
Which agency regulates raccoons in South Dakota
South Dakota Animal Industry Board is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in South Dakota.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
No permit is required at the state level. Raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) are specifically prohibited statewide - do not confuse them with raccoons.
Penalties and enforcement
Unpermitted imports or wild capture can bring misdemeanor charges and confiscation; the raccoon dog (a different species) is specifically prohibited.
Local city and county rules
Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and other municipalities restrict rabies-vector pets - local rules are the biggest hurdle.
Legal alternatives in South Dakota
- Sugar Glider in South Dakota — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Can I catch a wild raccoon in South Dakota and keep it?
No. Wild capture violates Game, Fish & Parks rules - a pet raccoon must come from a legal captive-bred source, with an entry permit and health certificate if imported.
Sources
More animals in South Dakota
- Is it legal to own a monkey in South Dakota?
- Is it legal to own a serval in South Dakota?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in South Dakota?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in South 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 South Dakota Animal Industry Board and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.