Yes. Use snake-proof fencing, deterrent plants, safe natural repellents, and gravel borders, placed strategically and maintained, to keep snakes away.
Yes, and the trick is using the right things in the right way. From snake-proof fencing to strategic plant choices, the items you place in your yard can make it far less inviting to these slithery visitors.
The key is to combine deterrents that change both the yard’s layout and its appeal, cutting off food, shelter, and easy travel routes. At AAAC Wildlife Removal, we’ve seen what works and what’s a waste of time.
That’s why we focus on proven, humane solutions that keep snakes away without harming them, your pets, or the environment. By understanding why snakes come onto your property in the first place, you can select barriers, plants, and safe repellents that truly make a difference.
Understanding Why Snakes Enter Yards in the First Place
Snakes don’t wander into yards just for fun, they’re looking for something specific. Most often, it’s food. If your property has a healthy population of rodents, frogs, lizards, or even a lot of insects, you’re essentially rolling out a welcome mat for hungry snakes. They follow their prey, and once they find it, they tend to stick around.
Shelter is the second major draw. Tall grass, woodpiles, dense shrubs, and cluttered corners provide perfect hiding spots where snakes can rest, hunt, or escape predators. Even decorative features like rock gardens and retaining walls can create snug gaps that snakes love.
Finally, water and warmth are irresistible. Ponds, birdbaths, and pools can attract both prey and snakes themselves, while sunny stone paths or patios make excellent basking areas. Understanding these motivators is the first step in knowing what to put in your yard, and where to put it, so snakes decide to slither elsewhere.
Physical Barriers That Actually Work
One of the most reliable ways to keep snakes out is to block their entry entirely. Snake-proof fencing is the gold standard, using a fine mesh (¼ inch or smaller) installed at least 30 inches high and buried 6–12 inches underground to stop burrowing.
The fence should angle outward at about 30 degrees so snakes can’t climb it. For smaller areas like gardens or play zones, lightweight garden netting can create an effective exclusion zone.
It’s especially useful when protecting high-value spots without enclosing the entire property. Netting should be kept taut and checked regularly for gaps. Here’s what to consider when setting up barriers:
- Mesh size: Use ¼-inch or smaller to block even small snakes.
- Fence height: At least 30 inches tall for effective deterrence.
- Burial depth: 6–12 inches underground to prevent burrowing.
- Fence angle: Lean outward at about 30 degrees to make climbing difficult.
- Perimeter coverage: Seal all gaps, corners, and edges for full protection.
Placement matters just as much as the barrier itself. Fencing and netting work best when they cover the property’s perimeter or form a closed loop around sensitive spaces. Any opening, even one inch, can undo all your efforts, so professional installation and routine checks are key.
Plants That Repel Snakes Naturally
Certain plants can make your yard far less appealing to snakes. Species like marigolds, lemongrass, garlic, and mother-in-law’s tongue produce strong scents or have sharp, upright leaves that snakes prefer to avoid.
These plants work best as part of a layered approach, creating natural “no-go zones” around gardens, patios, and walkways. Here are some effective options to consider:
- Marigolds: Strong scent and root system that can deter burrowing pests, indirectly discouraging snakes.
- Lemongrass: Citrus-like fragrance that snakes dislike, plus it thrives in warm climates.
- Garlic: Pungent aroma acts as a natural repellent when planted in clusters.
- Mother-in-law’s tongue: Tall, stiff leaves create an unwelcoming texture for snakes to navigate.
- Onion plants: Sharp scent that can add another layer of deterrence when used with other plants.
Placement is crucial. Line property edges, garden borders, and high-traffic paths with these plants to form a living barrier. Grouping them densely increases their effectiveness, as snakes are less likely to weave through thick, unwelcoming growth.
While no plant alone can guarantee a snake-free yard, using the right ones in strategic spots adds an extra layer of defense, and they bring the bonus of enhancing your landscaping at the same time.
Safe, Effective Snake Repellents You Can Use
In addition to plants and barriers, certain repellents can help keep snakes away from your yard. The most reliable options use natural ingredients like essential oils from cinnamon, clove, or cedar, which irritate a snake’s Jacobson’s organ and make them want to move on.
Granular repellents work well along fence lines and garden edges, while liquid sprays are ideal for spot-treating problem areas. Consistency is key. These products need to be reapplied after heavy rain or every few weeks to maintain effectiveness.
When used as part of a larger prevention plan, they can help close the gaps snakes might otherwise take advantage of. Avoid harmful substances such as mothballs, diesel fuel, or bleach. Not only are these ineffective against snakes, but they’re also dangerous for pets, children, and the environment, and in some cases, illegal to use outdoors.
Habitat Modifiers You Can Place in the Yard
Altering the physical layout of your yard can make it less comfortable for snakes to travel or settle in. Raised garden beds with clean, defined edging remove low hiding spots while making it harder for snakes to access crops.
Gravel or sharp stone borders around flower beds and patios create uncomfortable surfaces that snakes tend to avoid crossing. Here are some effective habitat modifiers to try:
- Raised garden beds: Keep plants elevated and reduce ground-level hiding spots.
- Gravel or sharp stone borders: Create surfaces snakes are less likely to cross.
- Short, trimmed grass: Limits cover and makes snakes easier to spot.
- Motion-activated sprinklers: Startle and disrupt snake movement in high-risk areas.
- Vibration devices: Emit low-level disturbances snakes prefer to avoid.
The goal is to design a yard that’s open, less hospitable, and more difficult for snakes to navigate. By combining these modifiers with barriers, plants, and safe repellents, you reduce both the appeal and accessibility of your outdoor space.
What NOT to Put in Your Yard?
Some popular “snake deterrents” do more harm than good. Mothballs, for example, contain chemicals that are toxic to pets, wildlife, and even humans, yet have little proven effect on snakes. Diesel fuel, bleach, and other harsh substances can damage your soil and plants, and their fumes pose serious health risks.
Glue traps are another method to avoid. While they might catch a snake, they cause prolonged suffering and can also harm non-target animals like birds and lizards. In many areas, these traps are considered inhumane and may violate local wildlife laws.
If you want to keep snakes away safely, focus on proven, humane options. Harmful chemicals and cruel traps can create bigger problems than the snakes themselves, and in some cases, they could land you in legal trouble.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
Even the best deterrents can fail if they’re not installed correctly or maintained over time. Snake-proof fencing, for instance, needs precise placement, secure fastening, and zero gaps to work effectively. Professional installation ensures every detail is handled, from the right mesh size to the proper burial depth.
Maintenance is just as important. Weather, soil movement, and normal wear can create openings that snakes will quickly take advantage of. Regular inspections and prompt repairs keep your barriers, plants, and repellents performing at their best.
AAAC Wildlife Removal specializes in tailoring snake prevention to your property. Our team can assess your yard, recommend the right combination of deterrents, and make sure everything stays in top condition year-round.
Keeping Snakes Out for Good
Keeping snakes away isn’t about a single quick fix, it’s about combining the right deterrents and maintaining them over time. Physical barriers, strategic plants, safe repellents, and smart habitat changes work best when used together.
The more you remove what attracts snakes and block their access, the less likely they are to stick around. By pairing these methods with professional guidance, you can create a yard that’s safe, comfortable, and unappealing to unwanted visitors.
AAAC Wildlife Removal can help you choose and install the right solutions for lasting results. With the right setup and upkeep, you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about snakes making themselves at home.
Keep Your Yard Snake-Free With AAAC Wildlife Removal
If snakes are making you uneasy about stepping outside, it’s time to take action. Our team knows exactly which deterrents work in your area and how to install them for long-term protection. From snake-proof fencing to customized prevention plans, we’ll make your yard a place snakes don’t want to be.
Call AAAC Wildlife Removal today to schedule your property inspection and get a humane, effective plan to keep snakes out for good.
