Species Guide · Updated January 2025
Coati Ownership Laws by State (2025)
Coatis occupy a legal gray area in most states — but they are clearly legal in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico, and permitted in Florida. Here is how to find out where your state stands.
Overview: Coati Legality in the United States
Coatis (Nasua nasua and Nasua narica) are medium-sized omnivores from South and Central America, related to raccoons. They are social, intelligent, and among the more surprising "legal in many states" exotic pets — partly because their classification under state law is inconsistent and sometimes works in owners' favor.
The Non-Traditional Livestock Loophole
Several states that you might expect to restrict coatis actually permit them because they fall under "non-traditional livestock" or "alternative livestock" classifications in agriculture regulations rather than wildlife regulations. This matters because agriculture departments typically have less restrictive permitting pathways than wildlife agencies. Texas, in particular, classifies coatis as non-native exotic animals under agriculture rules — no state permit is required for personal possession.
State-by-State Status
| State | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Legal | Coatis are native to southern Arizona; captive-bred ownership is permitted with documentation |
| New Mexico | Legal | No state restrictions on captive-bred coatis |
| Texas | Legal | Classified as exotic non-native wildlife; no state permit required for personal possession |
| Florida | Permit | Class III Wildlife License required from FWC ($50/yr) |
| California | Banned | Prohibited as exotic wildlife |
| Hawaii | Banned | All non-native mammals banned |
| Most states | Unclear | Coatis fall into a gray area in most states. Contact your state wildlife agency directly to get a written determination before purchasing. |
Why Getting a Written Determination Matters
Coatis are a good example of a species where the lack of explicit mention in state law cuts both ways — some people interpret silence as permission, others as prohibition. State wildlife agencies can and do interpret "unlisted species" differently.
Before acquiring a coati in any state not clearly marked as legal above, contact your state wildlife agency and ask specifically: "Is Nasua narica or Nasua nasua classified as prohibited wildlife in this state? Do I need a permit to possess one as a personal pet?" Request the answer in writing (by email is fine). A written confirmation of legality is valuable protection.