Possums in the Roof? What You Can Legally Do in Victoria

If you live anywhere in Sunbury, Diggers Rest, Melbourne’s Western Suburbs, Gisborne, Romsey or the Macedon Ranges, sooner or later you’re likely to hear a noise in your roof.

Not the light scratching of a mouse. Not the scurrying of a rat.

No — this is heavier. A thump. A shuffle. A dragging sound.
A slow, determined movement that makes you freeze midsentence and think:

“Is that a possum in my roof?”

In Victoria, suburbia and wildlife often overlap. Possums are intelligent, curious, and extremely good at finding warm, sheltered spaces. Unfortunately for homeowners, that warm, sheltered space is often the roof cavity.

This blog explains:

• How to identify possum activity
• What Victorian law allows you to do (and what it strictly prohibits)
• Why possums love your roof
• How humane, legal possum removal actually works
• How to keep possums OUT permanently
• When it’s essential to involve a licensed, professional possum handler
• How residents across Sunbury, Melbourne and surrounding suburbs can protect their homes legally and ethically

Let’s break it down properly.

1. Are Possums Protected in Victoria? Yes — Here’s What That Means.

Possums are native wildlife, and under the Wildlife Act in Victoria, they are:

• Protected
• Regulated
• Subject to strict guidelines regarding handling and relocation

This means:

❌ You cannot harm a possum

No poisoning, trapping (unless permitted), or harming is allowed.

❌ You cannot relocate a possum far away

Relocating a trapped possum more than a short distance from the capture site is illegal.

❌ You cannot block a possum’s entry point while it’s inside

This can trap, harm, or cause stress to the animal — also illegal.

✔ You can legally remove a possum from your roof

…but only following strict steps and only with correct trapping and handling procedures.

✔ You can possum-proof your home

This is encouraged — provided all entry points are closed after the possum is confirmed outside.

✔ A licensed professional can help you do it legally

This prevents homeowners unintentionally breaking wildlife laws.

In Victoria: Possum removal is about legal compliance AND humane practice.

2. How to Know You Have a Possum in the Roof (Not Rats or Other Wildlife)

Before you do anything, it’s important to confirm it’s actually a possum.

Here are the signs:

2.1 Possum noises in the roof

Possums are:

• Heavier than rats or mice
• Slower movers
• More deliberate in their movement

Typical sounds:

• Thumping
• Dragging
• Loud scurrying
• Growling or hissing if startled
• Scratching (but deeper, slower than rodents)

2.2 When the noise happens matters

Possums are nocturnal, so:

• You’ll hear loud activity soon after sunset
• Then again before dawn

Rodents, by comparison, tend to be active throughout the night, often lighter and faster.

2.3 Droppings vs rodent droppings

Possum droppings:

• Larger
• Pellet-like
• Found around entry points outside OR in roof spaces

2.4 Entry point clues

Possums usually break in through:

• Loose or shifted roof tiles
• Gaps around eaves
• Unscreened air vents
• Roof damage from storms
• Areas where trees overhang and provide roof access

If you see smudges, fur, or a clear gap, a possum may be using that track nightly.

3. Why Possums Love Melbourne Roofs (Especially Sunbury & Surrounding Areas)

Possums aren’t in your roof because they’re “invading”, “angry”, or “trying to cause damage”. They’re simply looking for:

✔ Warmth

Roof spaces stay warm even on winter nights.

✔ Safety from predators

Cats, dogs, foxes and other wildlife can’t reach them up high.

✔ Darkness & shelter

Roofs mimic hollow trees — their natural habitat.

✔ Convenience

Sunbury and surrounding suburbs have:

• Larger blocks
• Overhanging trees
• Open access points
• Plenty of food sources
• Backyard compost, fruit trees, veggie gardens

Possums are smart and resourceful — if they find a weak point in your property design, they take advantage.

4. The Big Question: What Can You Legally Do About Possums in Victoria?

This is where most homeowners unknowingly break the law.

Let’s make it simple and clear.

4.1 It is legal to —

✔ Remove a possum from your roof cavity

If done:

• Humanely
• With the correct equipment
• According to Victorian wildlife law
• By a licensed wildlife controller (strongly recommended)

✔ Possum-proof your roof AFTER removal

You must ensure:

• The possum is out
• All entry points are sealed
• A one-way door (if used) is installed correctly
• No animals or young remain in the roof

✔ Install nesting boxes on your property

This gives the possum an alternative home, reducing the risk of break-ins.

✔ Trim branches that allow roof access

(While complying with local council pruning rules.)

4.2 It is illegal to —

❌ Harm a possum in any way

Including physical harm, poisoning, or trapping that causes stress or injury.

❌ Relocate a possum long distances

Victorian law only allows relocation within a short range of the capture location.

❌ Seal a possum inside the roof

This causes harm and is a serious offence.

❌ Use unauthorised traps or handling methods

Improper trapping or handling can cause accidental injury.

This is why DIY possum removal is risky:
You can accidentally break the law without realising it.

5. Step-by-Step: How Legal Possum Removal Works in Victoria

This section is critical for E-E-A-T — showing correct processes builds trust with readers and Google.

Here’s the proper, legal, humane approach.

Step 1 — Inspection

A licensed wildlife controller (like Pest and Snakes) will:

• Confirm it is a possum and not another pest
• Identify the exact entry points
• Check for babies or multiple adults
• Assess the condition of the roof cavity

This prevents wrong assumptions that could lead to illegal or harmful actions.

Step 2 — Legal Trapping or Encouraged Exit Method

Possums can be:

• Encouraged out using one-way exits
• Trapped using legal, humane traps

Only approved trapping methods may be used.

Step 3 — Release in Compliance with Victorian Law

Possums must be released close to the capture location — typically within the regulations set by wildlife authorities.

This keeps the possum in its natural territory without harming its ability to survive.

Step 4 — Possum-Proofing the Roof (Critical Step)

This is where many homeowners go wrong.

Once the possum is confirmed out:

• Entry points are sealed
• Roof tiles are secured
• Eave gaps are repaired
• Vent covers are installed
• Overhanging branches are cut back (where practical)

This prevents the possum from re-entering.

Step 5 — Optional Nesting Box Installation

Providing an alternative home outside helps:

• Reduce property damage
• Keep possums off roofs long-term
• Support local wildlife

6. Why DIY Possum Removal Often Fails (or Becomes Illegal)

Many homeowners try:

• Blocking the hole
• Scaring the possum
• Attempting DIY traps
• Using repellents
• Making noise

The problem?

❌ These methods rarely work

Possums often find another weak point, break new tiles, or create new holes.

❌ DIY blocking risks trapping a possum inside

This is illegal AND dangerous.

❌ Without identifying babies, you risk separating a mother and young

This leads to distress, property damage and legal implications.

❌ DIY traps may not comply with wildlife laws

Improper use can cause injury.

❌ Handling possums without a licence can breach regulations

Homeowners often don’t realise this.

This is why professional, licensed help is the safest option.

7. Why Possums in Roofs Are a Serious Issue (Beyond the Noise)

Possums aren’t trying to cause trouble — but they can cause significant damage.

7.1 They compress and tear insulation

Reducing heating efficiency and increasing energy costs.

7.2 They soil insulation and structural areas

Leading to strong odours, hygiene issues and potential replacement costs.

7.3 They chew wiring and timber

(Not as common as rodents — but still possible.)

7.4 They cause loud noise

Possums move like small dogs in a roof cavity.

7.5 They can stress pets

Cats and dogs may bark or panic at the noise.

7.6 They leave droppings in high-traffic outdoor areas

A problem especially for:

• Childcare centres
• Schools
• Outdoor cafés
• Residential decks/patios

7.7 They may attract predators

Where possums are, predators sometimes follow.

8. How to Prevent Possums from Entering Your Roof Again (Long-Term Strategy)

Possum-proofing isn’t a one-off action — it’s a strategy.

Here’s a complete guide:

8.1 Secure All Entry Points

Look for:

• Gaps under roofing tiles
• Damaged eaves
• Holes in timber
• Unscreened vents
• Openings near plumbing
• Shifting roof sheets

Every gap bigger than a golf ball is a potential entry.

8.2 Manage Trees and Branch Access

Possums usually reach the roof by:

• Overhanging branches
• Fences close to roofing
• Pergolas, sheds and climbing structures

Where possible:

• Trim branches 1-2m away from rooflines
• Check pergola connections
• Remove climbing structures close to walls

8.3 Reduce Outdoor Food Sources

Possums thrive where food is convenient:

• Fruit trees
• Veggie gardens
• Compost piles
• Bird feeders
• Pet food left outside

You don’t need to remove these — just manage them.

8.4 Install an External Nesting Box

If a possum loses its roof home, it needs somewhere else to go.

This reduces the likelihood it will try to reclaim the roof cavity.

8.5 Maintain Your Roof Annually

After storms, heat expansion and seasonal changes, roofs can develop new weak points.

A quick visual check each year helps prevent re-entry.

9. Possums and Melbourne Businesses: What You Need to Know

Possums are not just a residential issue.

Businesses at risk include:

• Childcare centres
• Schools
• Restaurants and cafés
• Warehouses
• Office buildings
• Aged-care facilities
• Caravan parks
• Hotels and accommodation providers

Common commercial problems:

• Droppings around entrances
• Nesting above false ceilings
• Damage to stock or outdoor equipment
• Noise disrupting operations
• Negative impression on customers
• Workplace health concerns
• Staff discomfort or fear

A structured wildlife and pest plan is essential for commercial compliance and customer-facing businesses.

10. FAQ: Possums in Victoria – Your Legal and Practical Questions Answered

10.1 Can I remove a possum myself?

Yes — with extreme caution, and only by using legal trapping and humane methods.
However, because the law is strict, most homeowners choose licensed professionals.

10.2 Can I relocate a possum far away?

No.
Victorian law restricts relocation distance.

10.3 What if I accidentally trap a possum inside the roof?

This must be resolved urgently, as it can cause harm (and legal trouble).
A professional should handle it.

10.4 Will possums come back after removal?

If the entry point is not sealed properly — yes.
Possums are creatures of habit and will return.

10.5 Can I use possum repellents or sprays?

There is no guarantee they work.
Prevention + exclusion is far more effective.

10.6 How quickly can possums cause damage?

Quite quickly — especially insulation damage and contamination.

10.7 Does possum control harm the animal?

No.
Licensed wildlife handlers use humane, approved methods.

11. Final Thoughts — You Can Live Alongside Possums Without Letting Them Into Your Roof

Possums are part of Victorian life.
They’re protected, intelligent, and important for our ecosystem.

But they don’t belong in your roof.

You can manage possum problems legally, humanely, and effectively — without harming wildlife or breaking the law. With proper removal, deterrence and sealing, you can stop the nightly noise, protect your home and keep possums outside where they belong.

Need Legal, Humane Possum Removal in Sunbury or Melbourne?

Pest and Snakes is licensed and experienced in:

• Legal possum removal
• Possum-proofing
• Roof inspections
• Identifying entry points
• Humane release in accordance with Victorian law
• Installing nesting boxes
• Long-term prevention for homes and businesses

We service:

Sunbury, Diggers Rest, Kurunjang, Melton, Gisborne, Romsey, Wildwood, Macedon Ranges, and Greater Melbourne.

If you suspect a possum in your roof:

Don’t block the hole. Don’t DIY trap. Don’t risk breaking Victorian wildlife laws.

Contact a professional who knows the legislation, the animals, and the local area.

We can help you resolve the issue safely, legally and humanely — and keep possums out of your roof for good.