Who Can Remove Possums in Sydney NSW?
Possums are a common sight in Sydney, particularly during spring, when they become more active and search for safe places to nest. While they may seem harmless, having a possum in your roof or attic can cause significant issues. These include property damage, noise disturbances, and potential health risks. However, it’s important to know that possums are a protected species in Australia, meaning their removal is strictly regulated.
So, who can legally remove possums in Sydney? Here’s what you need to know.
Why Possum Removal Requires a Professional
In New South Wales, possums are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act. This means it is illegal to trap, harm, or relocate possums without the proper licence. These laws are in place to ensure that possums are handled humanely and that their removal does not negatively impact their welfare.
Only licensed professionals can remove possums in Sydney. They have the knowledge, tools, and legal authority to ensure that possums are safely removed and relocated according to NSW laws. Attempting to remove a possum yourself without a licence can result in hefty fines and legal consequences.
What Makes Possum Removal Challenging?
Possums are highly territorial animals. Once they find a suitable nesting spot, such as your roof or attic, they are unlikely to leave on their own. They can also be aggressive when cornered or threatened, which makes removal without professional help dangerous.
Possums are nocturnal and often nest in hard-to-reach areas, like roof cavities or under eaves. Without the right equipment and expertise, it’s difficult to access these areas safely. Furthermore, even if you manage to remove a possum, it will likely return to the same site unless proper exclusion measures are taken to seal entry points.
Who is Licensed to Remove Possums?
In Sydney, only licensed wildlife handlers or pest control experts with the appropriate qualifications are allowed to remove possums. These professionals are trained in humane possum removal methods, ensuring that the animals are relocated safely and in compliance with NSW laws. They are also knowledgeable about possum-proofing measures to prevent future infestations.
Licensed possum removal experts must follow strict guidelines, including:
- Humane trapping: Possums must be trapped using humane methods that cause no harm to the animal.
- Relocation within legal limits: Possums must be relocated within 50 metres of the capture site. Moving them further can disrupt their natural behaviour and survival chances.
- Sealing entry points: After removal, professionals are required to help homeowners prevent re-entry by sealing all access points.
The Role of Licensed Possum Removal Services
Licensed possum removal services, like PossumRid, are responsible for safely and legally handling possums in residential or commercial properties. They provide a comprehensive service that includes:
- Thorough Inspection: Identifying where possums are entering the property, locating nesting areas, and assessing any damage they may have caused.
- Humane Removal: Using traps that comply with wildlife protection laws, ensuring that possums are captured without harm.
- Legal Relocation: Once captured, the possum is released within 50 metres of the property, as per NSW regulations. This keeps the possum within its territory, which is essential for its survival.
- Exclusion and Possum-Proofing: After removing the possum, professionals help seal entry points to prevent future re-entry. This could include fixing roof tiles, closing gaps under eaves, or installing protective screens over vents.
Why DIY Possum Removal is Not an Option
It’s important to understand that DIY possum removal is not only illegal but also risky. Without proper training, you could harm the possum or yourself. Possums can bite or scratch if they feel threatened, and they may carry diseases such as leptospirosis, which is spread through their urine.
In addition, failing to follow NSW regulations can result in significant fines. Attempting to trap or relocate a possum without a licence can lead to penalties ranging from $6,000 to $22,000, depending on the severity of the offence. DIY methods also fail to address the root of the problem, as possums are likely to return if the entry points aren’t sealed properly.
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Like PossumRid
At PossumRid, we specialise in the safe, legal, and humane removal of possums in Sydney. Our team is fully licensed and follows all NSW regulations to ensure that the removal process is handled correctly.
Why Choose PossumRid?
- Licensed and Qualified: We have the necessary licences to remove possums legally and humanely, ensuring you won’t face legal issues.
- Humane Methods: Our techniques are designed to capture possums without causing them harm. We relocate them safely within their territory, in compliance with wildlife laws.
- Possum-Proofing Solutions: After removal, we help you secure your home by sealing entry points and providing long-term exclusion solutions to prevent future infestations.
- Health and Safety: We manage possum removal safely, minimising any health risks to you and your family by handling the removal of waste, droppings, and potential contaminants.
Leave Possum Removal to the Experts
When it comes to possum removal in Sydney, only licensed professionals are legally allowed to carry out this task. DIY possum removal is not an option—it’s dangerous, illegal, and ineffective. By hiring a licensed service like Possumrid, you can be sure that the process is handled safely, humanely, and in compliance with all NSW regulations.
If you suspect possums are nesting in your roof or attic, don’t wait. Contact PossumRid today for a professional inspection and removal service. We’ll help protect your home and ensure the possums are safely relocated.
