How to Keep Animals (even alligators) out of your Pool

Imagine walking outside, ready for a refreshing dip in your pool, only to find an alligator lounging in the deep end. It sounds like something out of a viral video, but if you live in areas like Florida or Louisiana, this is a real concern. Even if alligators are not a threat in your area, raccoons, frogs, snakes, and other critters might be turning your pool into their personal watering hole.

Keeping unwanted animals out of your pool is not just about convenience—it is about safety, hygiene, and maintaining your pool properly. Let’s go over how to keep your backyard oasis critter-free so that only invited guests are taking a swim.

1. Install a Pool Fence (And Make Sure It Is Tall Enough)

A pool fence is one of the most effective barriers to keeping unwanted visitors out. Many homeowners install fences for child safety, but they are just as useful for blocking out wildlife.

If you live in alligator territory, make sure your fence is at least four to five feet tall. Gators can climb surprisingly well, so a sturdy design with no footholds is essential. Solid panels or tightly woven mesh work best. Avoid chain-link fences, as raccoons and snakes can easily squeeze through.

For added protection, ensure the fence extends underground by at least a few inches. This prevents animals like armadillos and rabbits from burrowing underneath.

2. Use a Pool Cover (And Secure It Tight)

A well-secured pool cover is another excellent way to prevent animals from getting into your water. However, not all pool covers are created equal.

• Solid pool covers completely block access and are best for keeping out larger critters like raccoons and alligators.
• Mesh covers allow water through but may prevent larger animals from falling in.
• Automatic covers offer convenience by sealing off your pool at the push of a button.

The key is to make sure the cover is properly secured. If there are gaps, smaller animals can slip through, and a loosely fitted cover can become a hazard if an animal gets trapped underneath.

Check out our selection of pool covers to keep your pool protected.

3. Keep Your Pool Area Well Lit

Many wild animals, especially raccoons, opossums, and alligators, prefer to roam at night. Keeping your pool area well lit can discourage them from coming too close.

Consider motion-activated lights around the pool deck and perimeter. Sudden bursts of light can startle animals and make them feel unsafe approaching your yard.

4. Trim Back Overgrown Landscaping

Overgrown trees, bushes, and tall grass provide cover and hiding spots for critters. If your pool is surrounded by dense vegetation, animals will feel comfortable sneaking up and even making a home nearby.

• Trim back any overhanging branches that drop leaves into your pool.
• Keep bushes and hedges at least a few feet away from the water’s edge.
• Regularly mow and maintain your lawn, especially near fences and pool enclosures.

5. Use Natural or Chemical Deterrents

Some animals are naturally repelled by certain scents and substances. Here are a few deterrents that can help keep them away from your pool:

• Vinegar or citrus sprays – Many critters, including raccoons and snakes, dislike strong acidic smells.
• Cayenne pepper or predator urine granules – Can be sprinkled around the pool area as a deterrent.
• Commercial wildlife repellents – These can be applied to fences and the perimeter of your yard.

If you are dealing with frogs and other small critters, an enzyme treatment like AquaDoc Pool Enzyme helps break down organic material in the water, which can reduce insect populations. Fewer bugs mean fewer animals looking for a snack near your pool.

6. Secure Trash and Food Sources

Wildlife is always on the lookout for food. If your backyard has easy access to a meal, animals will keep coming back.

• Store garbage in tightly sealed containers.
• Clean up any spilled food or drinks after outdoor gatherings.
• Do not leave pet food outside overnight.

7. Check for Gaps in Your Screen or Enclosure

If you have a screened-in pool area, inspect it regularly for holes, rips, or weak spots. Snakes, frogs, and even small rodents can find their way in through the smallest openings.

8. Be Cautious Near Lakes, Ponds, or Swamps

If your home is near a natural water source, your chances of encountering wildlife are much higher. You may need additional precautions, like:

• Installing extra fencing along the water’s edge.
• Keeping grass and vegetation trimmed near the shoreline.
• Using deterrent sprays along pathways leading to your pool.

What If You Find an Alligator in Your Pool?

If an alligator does make its way into your pool, do not try to handle it yourself.

1. Keep a safe distance. Do not attempt to scare or remove it.
2. Call wildlife control. Many states have alligator removal services that handle these situations.
3. Block access. If possible, close any gates or doors to prevent the gator from wandering further into your yard.

Keeping Your Pool Safe and Clean

Keeping critters out of your pool comes down to making the area less inviting. A sturdy fence, a secure pool cover, and regular maintenance go a long way in preventing unwanted guests from taking a dip.

Have a wild pool story? Share it in the comments. We would love to hear it!