ISO: Successful Raccoon Deterrent Techniques

Hi neighbors, We are dealing with the unfortunate situation of raccoons making themselves quite comfortable in our backyard, on our back deck, and even crawling up one of our downspouts in an attempt to claw through our wooden soffit to find shelter in our attic/crawlspace. I was hoping that some of you would have some recommendations for deterrents that have worked for you in the past! We have a motion light, our garbage cans are not in our backyard and they are secure, and we have even tried sprinkling hot pepper flakes around the yard. Please let me know ASAP about other methods that worked for you. Best, Elisabeth