Snake removal in Lakeland, FL involves the safe identification and humane relocation of the venomous and non-venomous snakes common to central Florida. Polk County hosts both pit vipers (eastern diamondback rattlesnake, pygmy rattlesnake, cottonmouth) and non-venomous species (black racer, rat snake, garter snake). Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission rules govern handling and relocation of native snakes. Enter your ZIP in the form on this page to be matched with a licensed Polk County wildlife operator for snake identification and removal.
Enter your ZIP and we’ll connect you with an independent, licensed and insured local snake removal operator.
Venomous snakes in Polk County
- Eastern diamondback rattlesnake (Crotalus adamanteus) — largest North American rattlesnake; pine flatwoods, palmetto scrub.
- Pygmy rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) — small (<30"); commonly encountered in residential yards.
- Cottonmouth / water moccasin (Agkistrodon piscivorus) — near water; aggressive defensive posture.
- Coral snake (Micrurus fulvius) — red/yellow/black bands; rare but highly venomous; “red on yellow kill a fellow”.
Non-venomous snakes commonly mistaken
- Black racer — jet black, fast moving; harmless.
- Eastern rat snake / yellow rat snake — long, yellowish; harmless.
- Scarlet kingsnake — mimic of coral snake; “red on black friend of Jack”.
- Garter snake — small, striped; harmless.
What to do if you find a snake
Don't approach. Don't attempt to kill it (illegal in some cases, dangerous in most). Photograph if safe to do so from distance. Confine the snake to a single room or yard area by closing doors and waiting outside, then arrange professional removal. Most Polk County operators dispatch within 2–4 hours during business hours.
Related Lakeland Exterminators pages
- Wildlife Removal in Lakeland — broader wildlife scope
- Rodent Exclusion in Lakeland — prey reduction
- Emergency Pest Control in Lakeland — same-day response
Frequently asked questions
Should I kill a snake in my yard?
No. Most Polk County snakes are non-venomous and beneficial. Florida law also restricts killing certain native species. Seek professional identification and removal.
How much does snake removal cost?
Pricing is set individually by the independent licensed operator depending on species, location accessibility, and time of day. Venomous snake calls run higher due to specialized equipment requirements.
Can I prevent snakes in my yard?
Reduce harborage: clear brush piles, woodpiles, and rock piles within 30 feet of the home. Rodent exclusion (snakes follow rodent populations) is the most effective long-term prevention.
Are snake repellents effective?
Commercial snake repellent products show inconsistent field results. Habitat modification and rodent exclusion outperform any repellent.
How do I find a Polk County snake removal operator?
Snake removal in Lakeland is performed by independent, licensed operators who hold FWC nuisance wildlife trapper authorization.
Disclaimer: Lakeland Exterminators is a local dispatch and referral service, not a licensed pest-control operator. We connect Polk County, Florida homeowners with independent, FDACS-licensed and insured pest-control companies. All inspections and treatments are performed by those independent providers, who set their own pricing, scheduling, and service terms.
Any reference to same-day, emergency, or 24/7 service describes the typical scheduling of matched independent providers and is not guaranteed; actual response times vary by provider, season, location, and demand.