How to Get Rid of a Raccoon for Free?
Free methods exist - but Louisiana law limits what you can do. Here's what's legal & effective in Orleans.
5 Free Deterrents That Actually Work
- Trash lockdown: Bungee cords + ammonia-soaked rag on top. Raccoons leave if no food in 2-3 nights.
- Light + Sound: Bright LED + talk radio in attic (not music) - 24/7 for 3 days evicts nesting mother with babies.
- Seal pet doors, remove pet food after 6pm.
- Trim branches 6ft from roof - stops roof access.
- Cayenne + Epsom salt perimeter around garden - mild deterrent, reapply after rain.
What WON'T Work (and Is Illegal)
Poison - illegal for raccoons in LA, kills pets & causes dead odor. Mothballs - illegal pesticide misuse, toxic. Relocating yourself >1 mile without LDWF permit - illegal. Live trapping without license risks rabies exposure.
When Free Fails - Call Pro
If raccoon is in attic/wall, has babies (spring), is aggressive/daytime, or you hear thumping - you need licensed trapper. We use humane cage traps, one-way doors, reunite mothers/babies, and guarantee exclusion.
Never corner a raccoon - 40% of Orleans raccoons carry roundworm/rabies. Keep distance, call (844) 817-0084.