Raccoons are common inhabitants of urban and suburban environments, known for their cleverness and dexterity. These omnivorous, nocturnal mammals remember solutions to problems for years, making them highly effective at exploiting human resources for food and shelter. Their nimble front paws enable them to manipulate latches and open containers, often bringing them into conflict with homeowners. Deterring raccoons requires a comprehensive strategy focused on eliminating the three main attractants: food, water, and secure den sites.
Removing Food and Water Sources
Eliminating easily accessible meals is the first step in discouraging raccoons from frequenting a property. Raccoons are adaptable foragers who readily exploit unsecured garbage and pet food. Secure trash using durable cans with tightly fitting, locking lids or heavy-duty bungee cords. Storing garbage cans in a locked shed or garage until the morning of collection offers the most reliable protection.
Outdoor pet food and water bowls should be removed before nightfall, as raccoons are primarily nocturnal and rely on these consistent sources. Gardens and fruit trees also attract raccoons, so harvesting ripe fruits and vegetables promptly reduces attractants. For compost, switching from an open pile to an enclosed, rotating tumbler prevents raccoons from accessing organic waste.
Securing Structures and Entry Points
Physical exclusion is the most permanent deterrent method because raccoons seek sheltered, warm places to establish dens. Homeowners should inspect and seal all potential entry points into attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces, as raccoons can squeeze through openings four to six inches in diameter. Install chimney caps and repair broken fascia boards or loose soffits using durable materials that resist prying.
To prevent access underneath decks, porches, and sheds, use a physical barrier known as an L-shaped “footer.” This barrier is constructed from heavy-gauge galvanized wire mesh, ideally with half-inch openings. Install it by digging a trench around the structure. The mesh should extend six to twelve inches deep into the ground and then bend outward at a 90-degree angle for another twelve inches. This horizontal flange prevents raccoons from digging directly down alongside the structure to gain entry.
Trim tree branches that overhang the roofline, as raccoons are skilled climbers who use these as pathways to access the attic. After sealing entry points, monitor the area for several days using a temporary indicator, such as crumpled newspaper or flour dust, to confirm no animals are trapped inside before finalizing the exclusion.
Using Sensory Repellents
Sensory-based deterrents act as a secondary defense, making the environment uncomfortable for the raccoon after primary attractants have been removed. Motion-activated sprinklers are particularly effective, as the sudden burst of water and movement startles the nocturnal animals. These devices use a passive infrared (PIR) sensor to detect the animal’s body heat and movement, triggering a stream of water up to 35 feet away.
Bright, motion-activated floodlights also serve to interrupt a raccoon’s routine, as they are primarily active under the cover of darkness. The effectiveness of ultrasonic devices, which emit high-frequency sounds, is variable because raccoons can become accustomed to the noise over time.
Scent-based repellents work by appealing to the raccoon’s sensitive sense of smell, making an area unpleasant. Commercial sprays containing capsaicin, derived from chili peppers, are one option that irritates a raccoon’s senses without causing lasting harm. While some home remedies like ammonia-soaked rags are sometimes suggested, they are not registered chemical products for this use and often require frequent reapplication as the odors dissipate quickly. For any repellent to be successful, it must be used consistently and in combination with the removal of food and shelter sources.