Snakes in Maitland

They are most active in the warmer months, especially in Spring, and are typically found in areas of bushland and in and around wetlands and waterways. Snakes may also travel through residential property during the warmer months and will typically move on in their own time with no need for human interaction.  

What to do if you see a snake at home? 

Follow the below steps if you see a snake on your property to ensure your family and pets are kept safe:  

1. Remove all family members and pets from the area immediately.  
2. Do not approach or attempt to move or kill the snake. This is when you are most likely to be bitten. 
3. Keep watch from a safe distance to see that the snake moves on from your property.  
4. If the snake is aggressive or poses a risk to your family’s safety contact an authorised snake handler to move the snake. View a full list of approved snake handlers.

To find out more about the snakes we share our environment with, visit the Australian Museum’s Fact Sheets page.

What to do if you see a snake on public land or at a Council facility? 

If you find a snake within a Council operated community building or public playground please contact Council’s Customer Experience Team on 02 4934 9700 or through the live chat function within business hours and the matter will be assessed.  

Council will not respond to requests to remove snakes from private land or areas of natural habitat on public land such as areas of bushland, wetlands and waterways. 

To limit the chance of snakes on your property, keep it well maintained and free of rubbish or piles of vegetation. Simple steps you can take include keeping grass mown regularly, ensuring gardens are well maintained, cleaning up rubbish and removing piles of logs or other vegetation.  

And remember, it is an offense to harm snakes under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.