Texas House Bill Would Allow Pet Raccoons With Permits

State lawmakers have introduced a bill that could allow Texans to keep raccoons as pets under a new permit system.

House Bill 1090 was filed with the Texas House of Representatives on November 12, 2026. The proposal aims to authorize the possession of raccoons through permits administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). The bill also contemplates charging a fee for the permit and allows for administrative sanctions related to its regulation.

Currently, TPWD restricts the possession of raccoons. State law also limits the transport or sale of live raccoons within Texas. It restricts moving the animals into or out of the state. TPWD notes that transporting or selling raccoons in violation of rabies quarantine restrictions constitutes a Class C misdemeanor.

If approved, the bill would create a legal pathway for individuals to own raccoons provided they hold the appropriate permit. This would shift the current regulatory framework that generally restricts private ownership.

HB 1090 is currently a proposal within the Texas Legislature. It must complete the legislative process before it can become law. The next regular session of the state legislature is scheduled to begin on January 12, 2027.