Fox-Proofing Your Garden in West London: Safe, Legal, and Effective Solutions

Published 17 November 2025

West London homeowners and gardeners frequently encounter issues caused by foxes.

From digging holes to scattering rubbish, and even posing a risk to small pets, foxes are a common nuisance in both urban and suburban areas.

At On Time Pest Control, we specialise in humane, effective, and legal solutions to fox intrusions.

Foxes in West London have adapted remarkably well to human environments.

Drawn by easily accessible food, shelter, and water, they frequent residential gardens, especially during the night. While their presence may seem benign at first, they can carry parasites, diseases, and often become bolder if not deterred early.

Key behaviours include:

• Digging for worms or attempting to access sheltered areas under sheds and decking.
• Scavenging bins and food waste.
• Territory marking with strong-smelling urine and droppings.
• Predation on small pets such as rabbits, chickens, or guinea pigs.

The most fundamental step in fox prevention is reinforcing your garden’s physical boundaries.

Foxes are agile climbers and diggers, so barriers must be both tall and deep.

• Install fencing at least 6 feet high, ideally with an outward overhang at the top to deter climbing.
• Bury the base of the fence at least 12 inches deep, with a mesh skirt extending outwards underground to prevent burrowing.
• Use galvanised wire mesh or chain-link fencing with apertures no larger than 2 inches.
• Ensure gates are tightly fitted and do not leave gaps wider than 2 inches.

Foxes are opportunistic feeders and will return to locations where they find sustenance.

• Secure all rubbish bins with tight-fitting lids or purpose-made bin locks.
• Avoid feeding pets outdoors. If unavoidable, ensure all leftover food is cleared immediately.
• Remove fallen fruits and uneaten bird feed, which can attract not only foxes but also rats.
• Compost bins should be fox-proof, ideally with a hard lid and sealed base.

Technological deterrents have proven to be highly effective fox repellents when installed correctly.

• Ultrasonic deterrents emit high-frequency sounds undetectable to humans but unpleasant to foxes.
• Motion-activated sprinklers combine the element of surprise with discomfort, quickly discouraging repeated visits.
• Use bright floodlights with motion sensors near access points to disturb nocturnal prowlers.

Non-toxic fox deterrents are an excellent addition to physical and electronic measures.

• Scent-based repellents such as predator urine (available commercially), citrus peels, or strong essential oils like eucalyptus and peppermint can be distributed near known fox pathways.
• Biological deterrents, such as introducing male dog urine, can simulate a territorial threat.
• Use specialist granules or sprays developed specifically for fox deterrence. Brands that include legal, animal-friendly chemicals are best.

Foxes are drawn to quiet, covered spots where they can sleep or raise cubs. Reducing these shelters in your garden is essential.

• Seal all gaps under sheds, decks, and outbuildings using concrete, paving slabs, or wire mesh.
• Clear out dense undergrowth or overgrown bushes where foxes might nest.
• Store firewood and garden materials neatly and off the ground.

Foxes are drawn to quiet, covered spots where they can sleep or raise cubs. Reducing these shelters in your garden is essential.

• Enclosures should be made of fox-resistant welded wire mesh, not chicken wire (which is too flimsy).
• Double-locking doors and raised hutches offer an additional layer of protection.
• Consider enclosing the entire pet run with mesh, including the top and base, to prevent access from all sides.

In the UK, foxes are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, meaning they cannot be harmed, poisoned, or trapped without a legal license.

In West London, local boroughs may have additional wildlife protection regulations.

Prohibited methods include:

• Use of toxic chemicals or poisons.
• Snaring or illegal trapping devices.
• Lethal control without a DEFRA-authorised license.

If your fox issue persists despite preventive measures, it may be time to consult experts.

• We conduct thorough property inspections to identify access points, scent trails, and den sites.
• Our team implements tailored deterrent plans combining fencing, repellents, and habitat modification.
• Ongoing monitoring and aftercare ensure the problem does not recur.

Fox-proofing your garden is not only possible, but entirely achievable using legal, humane, and effective strategies.