If a skunk enters a garage, cellar, basement or building, leave a door open so it can leave. Do not try to chase it out or spraying may result. Skunks trapped in window wells or other pits can be assisted to leave by carefully lowering a wide board, with cleats nailed on at 15 cm intervals, into the pit. The skunk can then climb up the board and escape. Place wire mesh around or over window wells to keep out skunks.
Skunks can also live beneath brushpiles, rockpiles, stacked lumber and wrecked automobiles.
These, as well as old, abandoned or unused granaries and buildings, should be removed to discourage skunk presence. Maintain a clean, uncluttered yard by removing rubbish and cutting tall grass. Road culverts in dry locations are often used by skunks as dens. Place 5 to 7.5 cm diameter wire mesh over culvert openings to prevent use by skunks. Properly fenced poultry runs will prevent predation by skunks and other wild animals.