Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Snake repellent
Mulch
Gravel
Ultrasonic snake repeller
Sealing materials

Steps on How to Keep Snakes Out of Your Yard

You can use a variety of natural snake repellents, but it’s important to apply them safely. For example, sprinkle a 2–3-inch wide line of powdered sulfur around your yard or garden perimeter (about 1–2 pounds per 100 square feet). However, keep in mind that sulfur can irritate the skin and isn’t recommended around children or pets. For a safer option, mix equal parts clove oil and cinnamon oil in a spray bottle and apply it to entry points, hiding spots and boundaries. This method is typically safe for kids and pets when used properly. Additionally, crushed garlic can be mixed with water (10 cloves per gallon) and sprinkled around your yard or garden or you can directly apply crushed garlic. This is a non-toxic option that’s safe for both children and pets. Reapply all these treatments every 2–3 weeks or after rain, focusing on boundaries, garden beds and potential snake shelters while ensuring treated areas remain safe for kids and pets.
Chemical snake repellents, available in sprays or granules, should be applied following the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, sprays are applied around the yard's perimeter, while granules are sprinkled in a 2-3 inch wide band or at specified intervals. For a 100-square-foot yard, use approximately 1-2 pounds of granules or as directed on the label. These repellents often contain chemicals that may irritate or harm children and pets if ingested or touched, so keep treated areas off-limits until the product has settled or dried completely. Always check for pet- and child-safe options.

To prevent snakes from entering your yard:

To enclose your home with a fine mesh, like hardware cloth, measure the perimeter and cut the mesh to a height of at least 30 inches. Dig a trench 4-6 inches deep around the perimeter to bury the bottom edge, preventing snakes from burrowing underneath. Secure the mesh to sturdy stakes or posts placed every 4-6 feet, ensuring it remains a few inches above the ground to prevent toppling. Use screws or zip ties to fasten the mesh tightly to the posts and overlap edges where sections meet for complete coverage.
Use gravel or crushed stones when landscaping because snakes tend to not crawl over them.

If you encounter a snake in your yard:

It is advisable to wear gloves and use a bar of shovel or rake from a long distance while evacuating the snake from your yard.
For non-venomous snakes, the other approach is to cover an empty bin over the snake and then transfer it to an area away from human inhabitation, preferably the woods. If you cannot cover the snake with a bin or doubt if it is non-venomous, contact the wildlife control in your area.

Tip

Wear protective gear (long sleeves, boots and gloves) when dealing with snakes.

Precautions on How to Keep Snakes Out of the Yard

Maintain a Tidy Yard

Like other reptiles, Snakes prefer areas full of clutter, which provides good hiding points. You should always ensure the lawn is well mown, bushes are removed, and any unwanted items are removed.

Seal Gaps in Your Home

Snakes are capable of wriggling through the most minor cracks or crevices. Check around your home’s foundation to ensure no gaps and use some weather strips around doors and windows to cover up gaps.

Use Natural Deterrents

To deter snakes, sprinkle coffee grounds or crushed eggshells in a thin continuous line around your yard's perimeter, focusing on entry points, garden beds or areas where snakes may hide. Use about 1-2 cups per 10 feet of boundary. Reapply these deterrents every few weeks or after heavy rain to maintain their effectiveness. Additionally, ensure these materials are spread evenly to avoid gaps that snakes could bypass.

Learning how to get rid of snakes involves removing their food sources, eliminating hiding spots and using repellents or fencing. If you do not want them to return, ensure you trim your yards and take appropriate measures to remove snakes from your yard for the long term.

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Lawn & Garden

A Step-by-Step Guide for a Snake-Free Yard