Short answer: Yes, when it's built right. A rattlesnake fence needs mesh with gaps no bigger than 1/4 inch, at least 36 inches above the nearest climbable surface, with the bottom edge buried. Most failures come from gaps at gates, corners and drain holes.
The specs that matter
Banner Poison and Drug Information Center lists the basic standards in a 2024 newsletter: a maximum gap of 1/4 inch, a height of at least 36 inches from the nearest climbable surface, and any part touching soil buried, deeper where the ground is soft or floods.
Where snake fences fail
- Gates with a gap underneath or at the hinge side
- Drain holes in block walls left open
- Plants, rocks or furniture next to the fence that a snake can climb
- Mesh that isn't buried, so snakes push under it
- Corners where two kinds of fence meet
What it won't do
Snake fencing won't stop scorpions. They climb over it and fit through the mesh. Pair it with scorpion sealing on the house if you have both problems.
Common questions
How tall should a snake fence be?
At least 36 inches above the nearest climbable surface.
Can I install it myself?
Some homeowners do. Most problems come from gates and drain holes, so have those checked even if you do the rest.