Content Updated: February 17th, 2025

One of the main issues with having snakes in your yard is that they can find their way into your house, and nobody wants that. Aside from the shock of encountering a snake indoors, safety issues arise as some snakes can be venomous, threatening pets and family members. If you have spotted snakes around your home, keep reading to learn simple tips on how to keep snakes away.

What attracts snakes to your yard?

Snakes may be attracted to your yard or home for several reasons. They seek food sources, such as rodents, insects, and amphibians, often abundant in gardens and around structures. Snakes also look for suitable shelter, such as dense vegetation, rock piles, and burrows, which provide them with protection and places to lay eggs. They may also be drawn to food or water sources, like ponds or puddles, for hydration.

Signs of snakes on your property

If you want to keep snakes out of your yard, you must be aware of the signs that indicate their presence. Here are some common signs that you may have snakes on your property:

  • Shedding skin or scales

  • Rodent activity, such as increase in exterior rodent pressure

  • Tracks or trails in the grass or soil

  • Droppings that resemble small, dark pellets

  • Disturbed vegetation or nests, indicating nesting areas

If you notice any of these signs, you should contact a snake control professional who knows how to get rid of snakes safely.

snake in yard

How to help keep snakes away

If you’re like most people, you probably prefer that your yard and garden be snake-free. And we honestly can’t say we blame you. Especially if you live in a country where venomous snakes are common. So, take a look at the following tips for how to help keep snakes out of your yard:

Keep your yard clear of clutter

Snakes like clutter for a couple of reasons. First, it gives them a good spot to hide from predators. Second, snakes are reptiles, which means they need warmth to survive. Clutter, such as compost piles or stacks of wood, can make a nice, cozy den that protects snakes from the elements. Look for alternatives that are less attractive to snakes.

Cut your grass

Regularly cutting your grass is a crucial step to help keep snakes out of your yard. Overgrown grass offers excellent hiding spots for snakes, allowing them to conceal themselves from predators and ambush their prey. Maintaining a well-trimmed lawn reduces the available cover, making your yard less appealing to snakes.

Learn about the snakes in your neck of the woods

Looking up the local snakes in your region gives you a better idea of their habitat. Once you understand what conditions create the ideal environment for different snake species, you can purge your yard of the elements that make it a snake haven. Learning about the snakes in your area also gives you a better idea of how concerned you need to be with the reptiles in your yard. Copperheads, which are very common in many eastern states of the United States, for example, are venomous and do bite people. You definitely want to take proactive steps to keep these snakes away.

Install snake fencing

Snake fencing is an excellent solution if you’re a homeowner looking to keep snakes out of your yard. This type of fencing typically consists of fine mesh or solid materials installed around the perimeter of your property, creating a barrier that snakes cannot easily cross. The fencing should be three feet high and embedded into the ground to prevent snakes from burrowing underneath. Fencing off under decks and storage barns is recommended.

Secure the perimeter of your home from snakes

If you're wondering how to get rid of snakes, using effective snake deterrent methods is essential. Strategies like maintaining a clean yard, removing clutter, and installing barriers can help but may not always be enough. For more comprehensive solutions, hiring a professional specializing in snake control is best.