A licensed snake catcher can catch and relocate a snake for a fee. All snakes are protected in NSW and killing one can be considered an offence. Only licensed people are allowed to catch or keep snakes.
Locate a snake catcher
Find your nearest snake catcher on the reptile handler list.
For more information, contact Environment Line by phone: 1300 361 967 or email: info@environment.nsw.gov.au
Wildlife organisations
Most wildlife organisations do not catch snakes unless they are injured or there is a serious threat to human health and safety. However, if you do not have a licensed snake catcher in your area they may be able to assist, and can suggest ways to encourage the snake to move away.
Contact your local wildlife rescue group for help
How to deter snakes
You can make your garden less attractive to snakes by keeping shrubs trimmed, lawns mowed and the garden generally tidy. Remove any piles of rubble, wood, roof sheeting or leaf clippings where snakes can shelter.
Snakes may lay eggs in compost heaps and garbage piles. Food sources such as rodents, frogs or birds encourage them to stay, so snake-proof any refuse bins, ponds and aviaries with fine mesh.
If snakes are residing under your home, consider blocking their access after they have been removed.
Tip: Snakes hear through vibration, so when mowing the lawn, mow away from the house to avoid directing snakes towards it.
Find out more about snakes
Are all snakes dangerous? Snakes are not naturally aggressive and prefer to retreat. They will only attack humans if hurt or provoked - most bites occur when people try to kill or capture snakes. As snakes are a sign of a healthy ecosystem it can be wiser to overcome your fears instead.