Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley

What do I do with a raccoon under my house or deck?
During the day, place ammonia-soaked rags in a can every 3-5 feet around the perimeter and both sides of the entrance to the suspected problem area. Within 2-3 weeks the raccoons should have moved elsewhere. You can also try spreading human hair in the area. The smell of humans often keeps them from settling. Turn on lights during the night to keep raccoons away. Keep in mind that raccoons will not vacate until nightfall.

How do I keep raccoons from entering the yard?
Metal wrapped around the tree trunks will prevent climbing. Sprinkling cayenne pepper or human hair on your lawn will prevent raccoons from digging for insects. If you have a pond, submerge wire mesh around the perimeter of the water, attach it to the edge. This way the fish will be safe from raccoons, which tend not to walk on wire

How can I protect my small pets from raccoons?
Keep small animals secured at night. Removing a raccoon will only open up the territory for other raccoons, or possibly opossums, skunks and other wildlife.