Wasp and Hornet Nest Removal: Costs and Safety
When DIY is fine, when it's dangerous, and what pros charge.
Most wasp and hornet nests can be safely removed DIY for under $20 in materials. The exceptions — large nests, in-wall colonies, and any work above ladder height — should be left to pros at $150-$450 per nest.
Safe DIY removal
Small paper wasp nests (under 4" diameter) on accessible surfaces: spray at dusk when wasps are inside and inactive. Use a jet spray wasp killer ($6-$10) from 15-20 feet away. Wait 24 hours, then remove the nest. Cover skin and eyes; have an escape route.
Yellow jackets in ground nests: pour 1-2 cups of soapy water directly into the entry hole at night. Repeat for 2-3 nights. Insecticide dust also works.
When to call a pro
Bald-faced hornet nests (gray paper, football-sized): aggressive species, often require professional treatment. Any nest inside a wall or attic — DIY treatment without removal leads to wasps emerging in living spaces.
Any nest above safe ladder height. Anyone in the household with insect allergies, especially severe ones requiring EpiPen.