Raccoons may appear cute, but they can cause significant damage to your property if not addressed quickly. Known for invading attics, damaging insulation, and contaminating areas with urine and feces, raccoons pose health risks like rabies and roundworm. Their nocturnal behavior often leads to disturbed sleep, noisy encounters, and disrupted garbage. In this guide, we’ll show you 10 proven ways to get rid of raccoons humanely and protect your home from future invasions. Take action now to avoid costly repairs, safeguard your family’s health, and restore peace of mind.

What Attracts Raccoons to Your Property?

Raccoons are scavengers by nature. They’re constantly looking for food, shelter, and water sources that are easy to access. Properties that provide any of these attractants become ideal nesting or feeding grounds. If you’re noticing frequent raccoon visits, one or more of these may be the reason:

• Unsecured trash bins or overflowing garbage cans with food scraps
• Pet food left out overnight, especially on porches or patios
• Compost heaps or rotting fruits that drop from trees uncollected
• Bird feeders that spill seeds, attracting not only birds but also raccoons
• Holes in roofs, attics, chimneys, or broken vents offering warm shelter
• Standing water in birdbaths, gutters, or pet water dishes left outside
• Overgrown yards or stacked wood that provides safe hiding spaces
• Accessible sheds, basements, or garages that remain open or poorly sealed

Addressing these issues proactively makes your home less inviting to raccoons and other nuisance wildlife.

Also Read: How to Get Rid of a Raccoon in Your Backyard

10 Ways to Get Rid of Raccoons Safely and Effectively

1. Secure Your Garbage Cans

Raccoons are notorious for rummaging through trash. Always use durable garbage cans with locking or tight-sealing lids to prevent easy access. Store them indoors when possible, or anchor them down with weights or bungee cords to prevent tipping. Sprinkling ammonia or bleach on the lids may deter raccoons further. Keep trash areas clean and scent-free to avoid future visits from curious critters.

2. Remove All Outdoor Food Sources

Any accessible food will attract raccoons. Do not leave pet food, leftover meals, or BBQ scraps outside—even small crumbs can attract them. Bring pet dishes in each night and thoroughly clean outdoor eating areas. If you feed stray cats, consider feeding during daylight hours and removing leftovers by night. Managing food waste significantly reduces raccoon interest in your property.

3. Seal Entry Points in Your Home

Raccoons can fit through holes as small as 4 inches. Regularly inspect your home’s exterior for vulnerable entry points like roof vents, loose soffits, damaged fascia boards, chimneys, or crawl space gaps. Use heavy-duty materials such as galvanized steel mesh or sheet metal to patch holes. Seal gaps tightly and reinforce with screws, not nails, to withstand persistent raccoons. Professional inspection may reveal hidden weak spots.

4. Use Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers

Because raccoons are nocturnal and easily startled, sudden lights or movements can be highly effective deterrents. Install motion-sensor lights around garbage bins, entryways, and dark corners of your yard. Motion-activated sprinklers not only surprise raccoons but also train them to avoid your property over time. This eco-friendly solution works especially well in gardens and lawns where repellents may wear off quickly.

5. Apply Natural Raccoon Repellents

Natural repellents are a non-lethal, chemical-free method to discourage raccoons. Spray ammonia, vinegar, garlic water, or predator urine (fox or coyote) around raccoon hotspots. These odors overwhelm their senses and make the area unwelcoming. Reapply frequently, especially after rain. You can also scatter Epsom salts, cayenne pepper, or citrus peels in garbage or garden areas for extra effect. Always follow safety precautions for pets and children.

6. Install Fencing Around Gardens or Ponds

Garden fencing should be at least 3 feet tall and partially buried underground (6-12 inches) to prevent digging. Choose mesh or electric fencing for more effective exclusion. If protecting koi ponds, cover them with netting at night or use underwater lighting to deter nighttime visitors. Reinforce fencing around compost piles, chicken coops, or pet runs to keep raccoons from accessing easy food or shelter.

7. Use Live Traps (With Caution)

If raccoons have already taken up residence, live trapping is an option. Use a humane trap baited with sweet foods like marshmallows, peanut butter, or tuna. Always check traps within a few hours to avoid stressing the animal. It’s important to check state and local laws—many areas prohibit relocating wildlife without a permit. Professional help may be needed for removing the raccoon from your residence safely and legally, ensuring the problem is handled appropriately.

8. Clean and Disinfect Nesting Areas

After removal, cleaning up is critical. Raccoon droppings contain parasites like Baylisascaris procyonis, which are harmful to humans. Use a respirator and gloves to safely remove feces, nesting material, and urine-soaked insulation. Sanitize the area with bleach solutions or commercial-grade disinfectants. Once cleaned, reinforce entry points with steel mesh to prevent reinfestation. Regular maintenance prevents re-entry and keeps health hazards in check.

9. Trim Tree Branches and Clear Debris

Raccoons often climb nearby trees to access roofs or attics. Trim back overhanging branches at least 6 to 8 feet from the house to cut off easy access. Remove thick vegetation, brush piles, and clutter where raccoons might nest or hide during the day. Keeping your yard clear and open reduces shelter options and makes your property less appealing to wildlife intruders.

10. Call a Professional Wildlife Control Service

When DIY methods aren’t enough, hiring professional raccon control is the safest and most reliable solution. Wildlife experts like Wildout Animal Control use humane trapping methods, offer same-day services, and perform complete property inspections. They also provide exclusion repairs, attic clean-up, and follow-up visits. Professional intervention ensures raccoons are removed without harm and that your property stays protected long-term—saving you stress, time, and costly repairs.

Why Choose Wildout Animal Removal and Control for Raccoon Control?

Wildout Animal Removal is Florida’s go-to wildlife control expert for good reason. Their licensed technicians understand raccoon behavior and use safe, humane techniques to remove them without causing injury. They offer thorough inspections, seal entry points, sanitize nesting areas, and monitor your home to ensure raccoons don’t return. Wildout also complies with state wildlife laws and always prioritizes animal safety. With years of experience and a local reputation for excellence, they are the trusted choice for both homeowners and businesses dealing with unwanted raccoons.

Conclusion

Getting rid of raccoons doesn’t have to be dangerous or complicated. Whether you’re facing a one-time visitor or a family nesting in your attic, swift and humane action is key. With preventative steps like securing trash, sealing entry points, and using deterrents, you can avoid long-term issues. If the problem escalates, don’t hesitate to bring in professionals like Wildout to ensure your home is protected thoroughly and legally. A raccoon-free home is safer, quieter, and healthier for everyone inside.

FAQs

What time of day are raccoons most active?

Raccoons are nocturnal and most active between dusk and dawn. They typically leave their nests at night to search for food, water, and shelter. This is why you may hear noises in the attic or see them near trash bins during these hours.

Are raccoons dangerous to humans?

Yes. Raccoons carry rabies, roundworms, leptospirosis, and fleas or ticks, which can pose significant health threats. They may also become aggressive if cornered or protecting their young. Avoid close contact and always leave removal to trained professionals.

What smells keep raccoons away?

Strong scents like ammonia, vinegar, cayenne pepper, garlic, and predator urine can repel raccoons effectively. These smells overwhelm their sensitive noses and encourage them to stay away. Regularly reapplying repellents helps maintain effectiveness over time.

Can raccoons get into the attic?

Definitely. Raccoons can climb walls or trees and enter attics through broken vents, loose shingles, or roof gaps. Once inside, they may nest, cause insulation damage, and contaminate surfaces. Early inspection and sealing can prevent expensive repairs.

Is it legal to trap and relocate raccoons in Florida?

Trapping and relocating raccoons in Florida must follow specific legal guidelines set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). It is highly recommended to use a licensed wildlife professional like Wildout to ensure humane, legal removal that meets all safety and health standards.