How to get and keep squirrels out of my chimney in Delaware | Tree squirrel

How to get and keep squirrels out of my chimney

The best way to keep squirrels out of your chimney is to install a commercial, stainless steel chimney cap over the top of the chimney to prevent animal entry.

If a squirrel is already in your chimney, you need to remove it and cap the chimney to prevent further access.

To help the squirrel escape:

  1. Tie a 3/4-inch or thicker rope around the top of your chimney.
  2. Lower the other end into your chimney.
  3. The squirrel should climb up the rope and escape within a few hours.

Setting a baited cage trap in the fireplace and then opening the damper, allowing the squirrel to come down and enter the trap, is also effective. This method should only be used if the fireplace is secured by tight-fitting glass doors or covered with plywood to prevent escape into the house.

Do not use fire or smoke to encourage the animal to leave.

Once you are certain that the squirrel has escaped, cap the chimney with a commercially made cap and take steps to prevent squirrels climbing the building.

Note: Never try to grab an adult squirrel with a gloved hand. They will bite through most leather gloves, causing injury. 

Nuisance Wildlife Tree squirrel

Within the limits of residential or commercial areas of incorporated cities or towns, or within residential or commercial structures, gray squirrels may be controlled (killed) without a permit when they are causing damage. Methods used to control said animals must be consistent with the laws of this State and the regulations of the Department and only live traps may be used (without a depredation permit) outside of established hunting seasons.

Laws and regulations to be aware of

Regulations for Delaware

Nuisance Wildlife

Incorporated Cities or Towns. Within the limits of residential or commercial areas of incorporated cities or towns, or within residential or commercial structures, the following game animals may be controlled (killed) without a permit when they are causing damage: gray squirrel, raccoon, and opossum. Methods used to control said animals must be consistent with the laws of this State and the regulations of the Department and only live traps may be used (without a depredation permit) outside of established trapping seasons.

While we attempt to provide guidance about state and federal regulations pertaining to specific species and control techniques, we do not provide information about local jurisdictions (city, town, county, etc.) where regulations may be more restrictive, especially as it applies to discharge of firearms, transport of animals or use of trapping equipment. Contact your local city or county government to inquire further. No guarantee is made that information (or lack of information) associated with a species or control technique is completely accurate or current. You should become familiar with federal, state and local laws before beginning any wildlife control activities.

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