Classification of Raccoons in Colorado Under Colorado law, raccoons are categorized as wildlife, specifically falling under regulations that prohibit their possession without specific authorization. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is the primary agency enforcing these classifications and related laws. The information below notes what is restricted by state statutes and permitted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations; however, local laws and ordinances may be more specific about what is allowed at a certain location.
The more restrictive laws and regulations must always be followed. Could you be jailed for cuddling a raccoon in Colorado in 2026? Short answer: in almost all cases yes, you cannot legally own a raccoon as a pet in Colorado in 2026 unless you hold a specific Colorado Parks and Wildlife permit for rehabilitation, education, research, or other narrow exemptions. General private possession is prohibited, and unauthorized keeping risks fines, seizure, and public.
What Else Do Colorado's Laws Say About Raccoons? While pet ownership is prohibited, residents of Colorado are allowed to trap raccoons on their property, but must notify the Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife, and must gain approval to relocate the live animal to another private property within a 10. Colorado strictly prohibits raccoon possession under state wildlife regulations, classifying them as protected wildlife that cannot be removed from their natural habitat. Violating these laws can result in hefty fines, criminal charges, and immediate confiscation of the animal.
Colorado's laws prohibiting the ownership of raccoons as pets are in place to protect both the animals and the community. By respecting these laws and supporting wildlife conservation efforts, we can help ensure the well. Raccoons are considered to be exotic animals and, therefore, have a separate set of laws regarding ownership of them.
It is legal to own a pet raccoon in the following 19 states: Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont. Nuisance Wildlife Laws in Colorado Following are summaries of Colorado's most common regulations and statutes pertaining to nuisance wildlife questions. The laws and regulations in this handout are paraphrased for easier understanding and are intended only as a guide.
Colorado's wildlife statutes and regulations can be viewed in their entirety at Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) offices. Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding raccoon removal is crucial for homeowners and wildlife control professionals. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on state-specific regulations, permits, legal considerations, and contact information for local wildlife authorities.