In both Kentucky and Indiana, it is illegal for an unlicensed individual to trap and relocate most wildlife, including squirrels. Violating these laws can result in fines and penalties. Here's what you need to know.
Kentucky Squirrel Trapping Laws
Under Kentucky law (administered by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources):
- Trapping wildlife requires a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) permit
- Homeowners may not live-trap and relocate squirrels without this permit
- Relocating wildlife is generally prohibited because it spreads disease and disrupts local ecosystems
- There is a legal squirrel hunting season, but it does not apply to trapping nuisance wildlife inside structures
Indiana Squirrel Trapping Laws
Indiana law (administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources) is similar:
- A Wildlife Control Operator license is required to trap and remove wildlife
- Unlicensed trapping and relocation is a violation of state wildlife regulations
- Relocated animals typically die within weeks — they don't know where to find food, water, or shelter in unfamiliar territory
Why Relocation Is Harmful
Even if it were legal, relocation is generally a bad idea:
- High mortality: Studies show 50-80% of relocated squirrels die within weeks
- Disease spread: Moving animals between areas spreads parasites and pathogens to new populations
- Family separation: During baby season, relocation separates mothers from dependent babies
- Vacuum effect: Removing one squirrel just creates space for another to move in from the surrounding area
The Legal Alternative: Professional Exclusion
Our humane exclusion method is both legal and far more effective than trapping:
- We're fully licensed in both Kentucky and Indiana
- One-way exclusion doors let squirrels leave naturally — no trapping needed
- We seal all entry points so new squirrels can't move in (solving the "vacuum effect")
- The result is permanent — backed by our lifetime warranty
What About Killing Squirrels?
Using poison is illegal and dangerous. While lethal trapping is sometimes legal for licensed operators, it's unnecessary — exclusion is more effective and doesn't require killing any animals.
