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Coyotes might be part of the natural landscape, but that doesn’t mean they should be welcome in your backyard. Whether you’re protecting pets, livestock, or simply your peace of mind, learning how to keep coyotes away starts with strong prevention tactics especially when it comes to fencing.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best fencing options for repelling coyotes, plus practical tips to keep them far from your property. If you’re wondering how to keep coyotes out of your yard, you’re in the right place.
The Best Fencing Options to Keep Coyotes Out
A strong, well built fence is your first line of defense. But not all fences are created equal especially for clever and persistent wildlife like coyotes. The key is to have your fencing contractor build with strategy, using proven materials and designs that make it hard for them to jump, climb, or dig their way in. Below, we’ll break down the most effective coyote fence options.
Coyote-Proof Fencing
Coyote proof fencing is specifically designed to prevent coyotes from breaching your property. The most effective fences are at least 6 to 8 feet tall to stop jumping attempts and made with smooth materials that are hard to climb.
For digging prevention, the fence should either be buried at least 12 inches into the ground or equipped with an L-shaped mesh barrier at the base. Adding angled extensions or coyote rollers to the top prevents them from getting a grip to scale the fence. If you’re serious about repelling coyotes, this type of fence is your best bet.
Chain-Link Fences
Chain link fences are a popular and durable choice, but they require a few upgrades to serve as effective coyote fences. To prevent jumping, start with a minimum height of 6 feet. Since the links offer potential footholds, it’s smart to install coyote rollers or slanted tops to stop climbing.
Coyotes are also notorious diggers, so be sure to bury mesh at the base or pour a concrete footer to block tunneling. With the proper adjustments, chain link fencing can go from basic to coyote proof fencing.
Wooden Privacy Fences
A well built wooden privacy fence can serve dual purposes: keeping coyotes out and preserving your home’s aesthetic. These fences should stand 6-8 feet tall and have smooth, solid panels preventing climbing. Avoid gaps or horizontal braces that coyotes could use as steps.
To repel coyotes even further, install an underground barrier to stop them from digging underneath. A sturdy wooden fence may not scream “wildlife deterrent,” but with the right design, it can be a highly effective solution.
Electric Fences
Electric fences are powerful deterrents when appropriately designed. They work by delivering a quick, harmless shock that teaches coyotes to steer clear. Use a multi strand high tensile setup, with the lowest strand placed 8 to 10 inches above ground to prevent crawling underneath. Pair electric fencing with motion activated sound alarms or flashing lights for added effect.
This combination targets both their physical and psychological boundaries. If you’re looking for a way to keep coyotes away from larger areas or livestock, this is one of the most effective methods available.
Welded Wire or Mesh Fencing
Welded wire or mesh fencing is commonly used on farms and rural properties due to its toughness and versatility. Choose heavy duty steel mesh to prevent chewing and ensure durability. Like other coyote-proof fencing options, it should be at least 6-8 feet high.
To further deter digging, bury the mesh at least 12 inches into the ground. This setup is ideal for protecting livestock or garden areas and is a great option if you’re serious about keeping coyotes out of your yard on a budget.
Additional Tips to Keep Coyotes Away
While a good coyote fence is essential, combining fencing with other deterrent strategies will yield the best results. Coyotes are driven by food, water, and opportunity so cutting off access to those resources makes your property much less appealing. Here are a few more smart ways to effectively ensure you’re repelling coyotes.
Eliminate Attractants from Your Yard
One of the easiest ways to repel coyotes is to make your yard less inviting. Coyotes are opportunistic and will take advantage of any easy meal or water source they can find. Start with your trash use animal proof bins with tight lids and store them in a garage or shed if possible. Don’t leave pet food outside, even during the day, and avoid feeding wildlife. Water is another big draw; bird baths, dog bowls, and puddles from leaky hoses should be removed or emptied regularly.
Compost bins should be tightly sealed, and fallen fruit from trees or food scraps should be cleaned daily. Coyotes also use brush piles or tall grass as cover, so keep landscaping trimmed and tidy. The less opportunity you give them to find food, water, or shelter, the easier it is to solve the problem of how to keep coyotes out of your yard from the start.
Use Motion-Activated Deterrents
Even the best coyote fence can benefit from backup, and motion activated deterrents are one of the smartest layers of defense. Coyotes dislike sudden changes in their environment so startling them with lights, sound, or water can be enough to send them running. Floodlights that activate when motion is detected are especially useful at night, catching coyotes off guard. Sprinklers triggered by movement can add an extra deterrent, especially near garden areas or fence lines.
Sound alarms or ultrasonic devices can also be effective, creating noise or high pitched frequencies that coyotes find disturbing. Remember to move or rotate these devices regularly; coyotes are clever and quickly learn to avoid inactive zones. When integrated with a solid coyote proof fencing system, motion activated tools provide a powerful, unpredictable obstacle that keeps your yard secure. If you’re researching how to keep coyotes away, this type of deterrent is an excellent and low maintenance solution.
Keep Pets Safe
Protecting your pets should be a top priority when it comes to keeping coyotes away. Coyotes are most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime, exactly when many pets are let outside. Never leave pets unattended, especially smaller dogs and cats, even if your yard is fenced. Coyotes can be bold and fast, and a quick encounter can turn dangerous. Use enclosed dog runs built with coyote proof fencing that includes digging barriers and covered tops for maximum safety.
Supervise your pets closely and keep nighttime potty breaks short if your pets must be outside. Consider installing motion activated lights or cameras near pet areas for added peace of mind. If you’re still wondering how to keep coyotes out of your yard, this tip is one of the most crucial. Coyotes are less likely to visit a yard where they can’t find easy prey, so keeping pets protected makes your whole space less attractive. To enhance security further, consider getting coyote fencing.
Secure Your Property with the Right Coyote Fence!
The correct fence can make all the difference when it comes to keeping coyotes away. From coyote proof fencing to electric and welded wire setups, your choice should reflect the layout of your property, the risk level in your area, and your long term needs. But fencing is only part of the equation. You create a complete defense system by combining strong physical barriers with smart deterrents like motion sensors, clean yards, and pet supervision.
If you’re ready to install a coyote fence or upgrade your property’s protection, the experts at Evergreen Landscape Pros in Santa Fe are here to help. With years of experience designing durable, practical wildlife barriers, we’ll ensure your space stays safe without sacrificing style.
Call Evergreen Landscape Pros today, and let’s build a fence that keeps the wild out and your peace of mind.
FAQs about Coyote Fencing
1. What’s the best fence height to keep coyotes out?
Coyotes are excellent jumpers, so fences should be at least 6 feet tall 8 feet is ideal. Adding angled extensions, coyote rollers, or smooth materials can further prevent them from climbing over. For full protection, combine height with dig proof measures at the base of your fence.
2. Can coyotes dig under fences?
Yes, coyotes are skilled diggers. To stop them, bury your fence at least 12 inches underground or install an L shaped mesh barrier along the base. Pouring a concrete footer is another effective way to block tunneling and strengthen your fence against unwanted visitors.
3. Do electric fences work against coyotes?
Absolutely. Electric fences offer a strong deterrent by delivering a quick, harmless shock that discourages coyotes from crossing. Use a multi strand setup with the lowest strand placed 8-10 inches above ground. For maximum protection, pair it with motion activated lights or alarms.
4. Are motion-activated deterrents effective?
Yes, motion activated lights, sprinklers, and sound devices startle coyotes and disrupt their routine. These tools are especially helpful near fence lines or pet areas. Regularly move or rotate them to prevent coyotes from getting used to their location or timing.
5. How do I make my yard less attractive to coyotes?
Remove food, water, and shelter sources. Secure trash bins, bring pet food indoors, eliminate standing water, and trim overgrown vegetation. Clean up fallen fruit and tightly seal compost. The fewer attractants in your yard, the less likely coyotes are to visit.
