Rattlesnakes are part of living in the Sierra, and summer is when sightings become more common around Truckee and Tahoe Donner. Most of the time, snakes are not looking for trouble. They are looking for warmth, cover, and a quiet place to move through.
The good news is that rattlesnake safety is mostly about a few simple habits. If you know what to do, you can protect your family, your pets, and your neighbors without panic.
First, stay calm and give it space
If you see a rattlesnake:
- Stop where you are
- Keep a safe distance (at least several yards)
- Do not try to handle it, move it, or scare it away
- Keep kids and pets back, and step away slowly
What to do next
If the snake is just passing through
- Give it room and let it move on
- Keep an eye on it from a safe distance until it leaves the area
- Alert anyone nearby, especially neighbors, kids, or dog walkers
If the snake is near a high-traffic area
Examples include a front walkway, driveway edge, deck stairs, or a spot where kids play.
- Keep everyone inside or away from that area
- Block off access if you can do so safely (from a distance)
- Call for help using one of the options below
Who to call (options)
- Truckee Police Department (non-emergency)
- Nevada County Animal Control
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
If you believe there is an immediate danger to people, call 911.
What NOT to do
- Do not try to kill the snake
- Do not try to pick it up, trap it, or move it
- Do not spray it with a hose at close range
- Do not let your dog investigate it
Where rattlesnakes like to hide around mountain homes
- Rock piles and rock walls
- Woodpiles and lumber stacks
- Tall grass and thick ground cover
- Brushy edges along fences and property lines
- Under decks, stairs, and sheds
- Areas with debris, downed limbs, or clutter
Dog safety in rattlesnake season
Simple habits that help:
- Keep dogs on leash on trails and neighborhood walks
- Avoid letting dogs sniff into rock piles, brush, or downed wood
- Use a flashlight for late evening yard trips
If you suspect a bite: contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet right away.
Reduce Hiding Spots, Harden Up Your Yard
Many of the same steps that reduce wildfire risk also reduce snake hiding spots, clearing brush, removing debris, and keeping the area around the home clean and accessible.