How to Keep Animals Out of Your Backyard in Maricopa County, AZ — And Why It Matters

How to Keep Animals Out of Your Backyard in Maricopa County, AZ — And Why It Matters

Backyards in Maricopa County are meant to be a place of peace, recreation, and beauty. But in a desert environment where wildlife thrives, it’s not uncommon to find your outdoor space invaded by animals. From coyotes and javelinas to rodents, snakes, and birds, many species are attracted to residential areas, especially those offering food, water, or shelter.

If you’re a homeowner in Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, or any other part of the Valley, protecting your yard and pool from animals isn’t just a matter of convenience—it’s essential for health, safety, and property preservation.

This guide will explain why it’s important to keep animals out and offer practical, humane methods tailored to Maricopa County’s unique desert ecosystem.

Why You Should Keep Animals Out

Health and Safety Risks

Many animals common to Maricopa County can carry diseases that affect humans or pets. Examples include:

  • Raccoons and skunks, which can carry rabies.

  • Rodents, known to transmit hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonella.

  • Bats and birds, which can spread histoplasmosis through their droppings.

  • Snakes and scorpions, which can be venomous and life-threatening.

Reducing contact with these animals helps protect your family and pets from serious health threats.

Pet Protection

Backyards are often playgrounds for dogs and cats. But wild animals like coyotes, hawks, and even owls can attack small pets. Bark scorpions, which are common in the East Valley, can also seriously harm pets. Preventing wildlife from entering your yard keeps your animals safer.

Property and Landscaping Damage

Animals can be incredibly destructive:

  • Javelinas dig through landscaping and knock over trash cans.

  • Pack rats and roof rats chew wiring, nest in air conditioners, and destroy insulation.

  • Rabbits and deer damage gardens, plants, and irrigation systems.

  • Birds and bats leave droppings on patios, roofs, and in pools.

Unchecked animal activity can cause costly and recurring damage to your home and outdoor space.

Pool Contamination and Safety

In a dry region like Maricopa County, pools are a magnet for wildlife searching for water. Animals can:

  • Drown in the pool and contaminate it.

  • Damage pool equipment while searching for water or shelter.

  • Spread parasites or bacteria like Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

Keeping animals out of the pool is essential for maintaining a safe, sanitary swimming environment.

How to Keep Animals Out of Your Backyard

Remove Attractants

Most animals enter your yard in search of food or water. Eliminate or secure the following:

  • Keep garbage in animal-proof bins with locking lids.

  • Avoid leaving pet food, birdseed, or leftovers outdoors.

  • Pick up fallen citrus fruit and other produce from trees.

  • Clean up barbecue grills and food scraps.

  • Compost only in sealed containers.

Limit Water Access

In the desert, water is an irresistible draw:

  • Fix leaky hoses, irrigation systems, and spigots.

  • Drain kiddie pools, birdbaths, and pet water bowls at night.

  • Use pool covers when the pool is not in use.

Secure the Perimeter

  • Install fences that are at least 6 feet tall to deter coyotes and javelinas.

  • Use mesh or hardware cloth to seal fence gaps, especially near the ground.

  • Consider installing a short underground barrier (6–12 inches) to prevent digging.

  • Keep gates and garage doors closed when not in use.

Eliminate Shelter Opportunities

Animals seek out hidden places to sleep or nest:

  • Clear overgrown vegetation, thick shrubs, and brush piles.

  • Elevate wood piles and secure them off the ground.

  • Seal entry points under sheds, decks, and crawlspaces.

  • Keep outdoor storage areas tightly closed.

Use Humane Deterrents

  • Motion-activated sprinklers or lights can scare off nocturnal animals.

  • Commercial repellents using predator urine or strong scents (like garlic or ammonia) can discourage visits.

  • Ultrasonic sound devices may deter small animals or rodents, though effectiveness varies.

  • Rotate deterrents regularly so animals don’t become used to them.

Choose Native Landscaping

Use drought-resistant, native plants that don’t attract grazing animals. Cactus varieties, agave, desert marigold, and red yucca are good choices. Avoid planting soft-leaved vegetables or water-heavy ground cover that appeal to javelinas and rabbits.

How to Keep Animals Out of Your Pool

Keeping your pool protected is critical, especially in Maricopa County where pools are common and wildlife is thirsty.

Install a Pool Fence

  • A standard pool fence not only protects children but also blocks many animals.

  • Ensure the fence has no gaps larger than 2 inches at the bottom.

Use a Pool Cover

  • Safety covers or mesh covers prevent animals from falling in.

  • Solar covers or floating blankets are not effective deterrents and may even trap animals.

Install Pool Alarms or Motion Sensors

  • Some systems detect disturbances in the water, alerting you to unexpected guests.

  • Motion-activated lighting near the pool area can scare away nocturnal animals like raccoons or skunks.

Limit Nearby Attractants

  • Don’t store trash, compost, or pet food near your pool area.

  • Trim overhanging trees that may drop debris or allow access to the water.

Keep the Area Clean

  • Clean up after pool use—no leftover food, wet towels, or dripping water bowls.

  • Make sure drains and filters are free of animal droppings or leaves that can attract pests.

Educate Neighbors

If you live in a neighborhood with connecting yards, it helps if neighbors also secure their spaces. A community approach is the most effective way to reduce animal activity across multiple properties.

What To Do If You Encounter Wildlife

  • Never attempt to trap or relocate animals on your own—it’s illegal for some species in Arizona.

  • Contact a licensed wildlife control expert or pest management professional.

  • Report dangerous or aggressive animals to Arizona Game and Fish or Maricopa County Animal Control.

Final Thoughts

In Maricopa County, living with wildlife is part of life in the desert—but that doesn’t mean you have to invite animals into your backyard or pool. With the right precautions, you can enjoy your outdoor space without sacrificing safety, cleanliness, or peace of mind.

Taking proactive steps now can save thousands of dollars in damage, reduce health risks, and make your backyard a true extension of your home—not a haven for unwanted guests.

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