Is it legal to own a raccoon in Wisconsin?
The short answer
Yes, with a license. Wisconsin allows pet raccoons under a Captive Wild Animal Farm license from the DNR, renewed annually, with the animal from a lawful captive source.
What Wisconsin law says
Wis. Stat. ch. 169 regulates captive wildlife; native furbearers like raccoons require the farm license with enclosure and record requirements.
Which agency regulates raccoons in Wisconsin
Wisconsin DNR is the authority for raccoon (Procyon lotor) possession in Wisconsin.
Is there a permit for pet raccoons?
Yes — the Captive Wild Animal Farm License, issued by Wisconsin DNR (~$50/year class-dependent (verify current fee)).
Penalties and enforcement
Unlicensed possession carries forfeitures under ch. 169 with confiscation; rabies-vector rules apply.
Local city and county rules
Municipal wild-animal ordinances add restrictions in some cities.
Legal alternatives in Wisconsin
- Sugar Glider in Wisconsin — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get Wisconsin's captive wild animal farm license?
Apply to DNR with your enclosure details and lawful source documentation; renew annually.
Can I keep a raccoon I found in Wisconsin?
No — wild-taken animals go to licensed rehabilitators.
Sources
More animals in Wisconsin
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Wisconsin?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Wisconsin?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Wisconsin?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin DNR and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.