NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT)— A new Tennessee law is making it easier and less expensive for some residents to keep the state’s official wild animal, the raccoon, as a pet.
An amendment introduced by State Sen. Shane Reeves, R-Murfreesboro, took effect July 1, removing a $31 personal ownership permit fee for certain raccoon owners who meet specific requirements.
The amendment modifies legislation primarily focused on reporting injuries caused by captive wildlife. Under the new language, raccoon owners may qualify for a permit fee waiver if the animal:
- Was legally obtained and vaccinated
- Was not captured from the wild
- Already has a possession permit issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA)
The change affects only the fee requirement and does not eliminate the need to comply with state wildlife regulations.
State officials do not expect the change to have a significant impact on Tennessee’s finances. In a fiscal memorandum reviewing the amendment, state analyst Alan Hampton said the number of people likely to qualify for the waiver is expected to be low.
“It is unknown how many persons may possess a raccoon, meet the prescribed conditions, and not pay a permit fee who otherwise would have made such payment to obtain a permit,” the memorandum states. “However, the number of such instances is assumed to be low such that any decrease in state revenue is estimated to be not significant.”
Raccoons are among the most recognizable wildlife species in Tennessee and are commonly found throughout both rural and urban areas. According to wildlife officials, raccoons in Tennessee typically weigh between eight and 25 pounds and can thrive in a variety of habitats, from forests and farmland to neighborhoods and city parks.
While raccoons remain a common sight across the Volunteer State, wildlife experts continue to advise people to follow state regulations regarding ownership, vaccinations and safe handling of captive wildlife.
