Department of Public Works - Rat Control Program

Responsibility for the Rat Control Program has been transferred to the Baltimore City Health Department. However, rat infestations are largely due to unsanitary practices which provide them with food and shelter. Historically, rats cause major public health problems: plague, disease and bites which are sometimes fatal to children. Their gnawing creates holes that damage your property, expose electric wiring and destroy your home. Rat infestation lowers property values and the quality of life in your community. Rats eat nearly everything, especially garbage. Note: Rat Control cannot treat your property if it has excessive trash, bulk or high grass and weeds. Can your trash, clean your yard and help us starve out rats!

 

Use This Checklist To Make Sure Your Property Is Rat-proof!

  • The Baltimore City Code states that you must use durable trash containers with tight-fitting lids.
  • Remove leftover pet food from your yard after each feeding.
  • Remove dog manure each day from your yard. Dispose in plastic bags then place in trash can. Rats eat dog manure.
  • Remove bird food from the ground. Bird feeders should have high sides and a catch tray.
  • Mow tall weeds and grass. Don't give a rat a place to hide.
  • Elevate lumber or building material at least 18 inches above the ground.
  • Remove junked furniture, vehicles and appliances from your yard. They provide a home for rats.
  • Don't give rats access to your home. Close holes in windows, doors, screens and openings around pipes. Cut tree branches hanging over your house.
  • Use only grass, flower cuttings and leaves in compost piles, not food scraps, trash or garbage.
  • Vegetable gardens should be free of grass, weeds, rotten fruits and rotten vegetables. Tie fruit and vegetable vines to stakes. When left to grow on the ground, they provide food and shelter for rats.


Signs Of Rats In Your Home and Yard.

BURROWS - holes in and around your property, such as under floors, sidewalks, dirt banks and basement.
GNAWINGS - around doors and window seals, plumbing and electrical outlets and food packages.
DROPPINGS - look behind objects near walls and in places seldom cleaned or disturbed. Droppings are a sign of possible places to bait.
TRAILS - look for greasy areas along floor boards, stairs, pipes and beaten paths through yards.

It's the Law!

Baltimore City residents must keep their property clean. Unsanitary practices could result in citations being issued with fines ranging from $25.00 to $500.00.

For further information or assistance, call 311.

Sun. July 20, 2008