Seal all entry points with hardware cloth (1/2 inch or smaller), metal flashing, and caulk
Remove food sources: secure garbage in animal-proof containers, clean up fallen fruit, stop bird feeders or use squirrel-proof feeders
Eliminate water sources near the home by fixing leaks and covering exposed water
Trim tree branches and remove overhanging limbs that give squirrels access to roofs and power lines
Install baffles on trees and utility poles where feasible
Use chimney caps and repair damaged soffits and vents with squirrel-resistant screening
Block crawl spaces and vents with hardware cloth, not expanded mesh or thin screen
Remove nesting materials and keep attics and sheds free of accessible nesting areas
Use live traps only if legally allowed; check local regulations and release rules
Use exclusion-first methods before trapping to prevent resealing from being circumvented
Try deterrents: motion-activated sprinklers, ultrasonic devices, and squirrel-resistant landscaping (where legal/effective)
Apply commercially available repellents labeled for squirrels according to the label directions
Contact a licensed wildlife control professional for persistent infestations
If squirrels are in attics or walls, avoid DIY entry attempts and use professional exclusion
Document activity and check local laws for protected species and required permits