Rattlesnakes are the only venomous species of snakes found in Newport Beach.  If you see a rattlesnake in your yard or in a hazardous location, such as near a playground in a city park, call us at 949-644-3717.  Have children and pets go inside.  If you are advised that Animal Control is responding, keep the rattlesnake under continuous observation from a safe distance so that you can point out its exact location to the responding officer.  Our officers cannot search an entire yard for the rattlesnake, because doing so puts their safety in jeopardy.  Our officer will capture the rattlesnake and relocate it to a safe area.  If you are advised that Animal Control is not on duty, you may choose to contact a commercial snake removal service.

All other species of snakes in Newport Beach are not dangerous.  They do not have any venom or ability to harm humans or pets.  Because they pose no public safety risk, we do not respond to or relocate nonvenomous snakes.  If you see a nonvenomous snake in your yard, leave it alone and allow it to continue on its way.  Snakes are highly transient animals and are unlikely to stay in your yard for longer than an hour.

For assistance with identifying the species of a snake, see the photographs below.   You may also take a photograph from a safe distance and use this form to submit the photo to our Animal Control Officers for assistance with identification.

Venomous Snakes (Rattlesnakes)

Other Species of Snakes (nonvenomous)