Do Raccoons Dig Under Fences

If you’ve found mysterious holes along your fence line, you might be wondering: do raccoons dig under fences? The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding yes. These persistent and clever creatures are master escape artists and determined foragers, and a flimsy fence is rarely a match for their strong paws and problem-solving minds.

As a gardener, I’ve seen my share of raccoon raids. They can turn a tidy yard into a mess overnight. Understanding their behavior is the first step to protecting your space. This guide will give you practical, tested methods to outsmart them and secure your perimeter for good.

Raccoons are absolutely capable of digging under fences. They don’t dig for fun; they do it with purpose. If they smell food, see a water source, or need a safe denning spot on the other side, they will attempt to get through. Their dexterous front paws are perfect for scooping dirt, and they can create a surprising large tunnel in a short amount of time.

They often target the base of a fence where two panels meet or where a post might have loosened soil. A gap of just a few inches can be an invitation for them to start excavating.

Why Your Fence Isn’t the Barrier You Think It Is

Most standard fences are designed for privacy or to mark a boundary, not to withstand a determined wild animal. Here’s where they often fall short:

Shallow Depth: Fence panels are usually installed just a few inches into the ground. This is easy for a raccoon to undermine.
Weak Materials: Chicken wire or lightweight mesh can be bent or torn. Raccoons have strong claws and can rip through it.
Gaps and Gates: Loose gates or gaps at the bottom are the easiest entry points. They often don’t even need to dig here.

Proactive Steps to Fortify Your Fence Line

Prevention is always easier than dealing with an active raccoon problem. Here’s how to build a defense they can’t easily breach.

1. Install an Underground Barrier (L-Footer)

This is the single most effective method. You create an “L” shape underground that physically blocks digging.

Choose a sturdy material like hardware cloth (19-gauge or thicker) or galvanized welded wire.
Dig a trench along your fence line, about 12 inches deep.
Attach a 2-3 foot wide section of your material to the bottom of the existing fence.
Bend it outward into a 90-degree “L” shape, so it extends into the trench horizontally away from your yard.
Backfill the trench with soil and rocks to secure it. The raccoon hits this barrier when it tries to dig and cannot get past it.

2. Reinforce the Base with Concrete or Rocks

For a more permanent solution, pour a concrete footer along the fence line. A simpler alternative is to bury a line of large, heavy rocks or pavers. Bury them at least a foot deep. The weight and density makes digging virtually impossible, and they won’t rust or degrade like metal can over time.

3. Extend Your Fence Material Underground

If you’re installing a new fence, plan for raccoons from the start. Extend your fence material (like wooden boards or vinyl panels) at least 18-24 inches below ground level. This creates a deep wall they are unlikely to dig past, especially if the soil is compacted well.

Deterrents to Make Your Yard Less Appealing

While physical barriers are best, making your yard unattractive helps a lot. Remove the reasons a raccoon wants to get in.

Secure All Food Sources: Use locking lids on trash cans. Never leave pet food outside overnight. Pick up fallen fruit from trees promptly.
Eliminate Water: Fix leaky faucets and empty bird baths at dusk. Raccoons need water daily.
Remove Shelter: Seal off openings under decks and sheds. Keep brush piles away from the fence.
Use Motion-Activated Lights & Sprinklers: Sudden light or a spray of water can startle them and condition them to avoid the area.

What to Do If You Already Have Digging

If you see fresh holes, act quickly. Raccoons are creatures of habit and will return to a successful spot.

First, fill the hole immediately with soil and pack it down firmly. Add some large rocks on top before covering them.
Inspect the entire fence line for other weak spots or attempts.
Apply one of the barrier methods described above to that section immediately. Don’t wait for them to try again.
Consider a temporary deterrent like a commercial animal repellent (granular or spray) around the perimeter. Reapply after rain.

Remember, persistence is key. You have to be as persistent as they are. A one-time fix might not be enough if the attractants are still their. Consistency in applying these methods will win the battle for your garden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve seen gardeners make these errors that just don’t work.

Using Flimsy Chicken Wire: It rusts quickly and is easy for raccoons to pull apart. Always opt for hardware cloth.
Only Burying a Fence Vertically: A vertical barrier alone can sometimes be dug around. The “L” footer is far superior.
Relying Solely on Repellents: Sprays and granules can wash away or fade. They are a good supplement, not a standalone solution for a determined animal.
Leaving Attractants Out: The best fence in the world won’t help if you’re putting buffet on the other side every night.

FAQ: Your Raccoon Fence Questions Answered

How deep do raccoons typically dig?
They can dig down to 1-2 feet if motivated, but most attempts start in the first 6-12 inches. A barrier buried 12-18 inches deep is usually sufficient.

Can raccoons climb over fences?
Absolutely. They are excellent climbers. A fence designed to keep them out must also have an overhang or be made of a smooth material they can’t grip. This article focuses on digging, but remember to look up too!

Will cayenne pepper stop raccoons from digging?
It might deter them temporarily, but rain will wash it away. A curious or hungry raccoon may simply dig a few inches away from the spice. It’s not a reliable long-term fix compared to a physical barrier.

What time of night are raccoons most active?
They are primarily nocturnal, with peak activity around dusk and just before dawn. This is when you’re most likely to hear them or see evidence of their digging.

Should I use an electric fence?
A low-strand electric wire near the base of the fence can be a very effective deterrent for persistent problems. It delivers a safe but memorable shock. It’s often used in conjunction with physical barriers for high-value areas like vegetable gardens.

Protecting your garden from raccoons is about smart design and consistency. By understanding that yes, raccoons do dig under fences, you can take the right steps to stop them. Focus on a sturdy, buried barrier, eliminate what draws them in, and be vigilant. Your plants—and your peace of mind—will thank you for it.