Mission:

To protect the public health and safety of the residents and visitors of the District by reducing rodent activity and other vectors through proactive surveys, inspections, baiting, enforcement, community outreach and distribution of educational materials.

Rodent Control Dashboard:

The DC Health Rodent Dashboard is a centralized, public tracking tool built to monitor the District's ongoing rodent control initiatives, active service requests, and community abatement efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a burrow?
A hole dug by a small animal.

Does the Rodent and Vector Control Unit use bait boxes to treat for rats?
No.

Is the chemical used in rodent treatment harmful to kids and small animals?
To prevent small animals and children from coming into contact with the chemical, we cover the burrows after we treat the burrows.

Why can’t the inspectors treat my property daily?
In order for the chemical to effectively work, we give a window of 14 days to allow the chemical to fully take effect. This will also prevent the rat from developing a resistance to the chemical.

Does the Rodent and Vector Control Unit trap rodents?
No.

Why do rats love dog waste?
Dog feces has a lot of nutrients.

Are old abandoned vehicles considered Rodent Harborage?
Yes, and should be removed immediately.

Does DC Health treat for bed bugs?
No. We provide education and have a limited supply of bed bug control spray and bed bug control bedsheets available, if requested.

Does DC Health inspect the inside of buildings for rodents?
No.

How do I report a rodent complaint?
Call 311 or visit 311.dc.gov and request to route the report to DC Health.

DC Health protects human health and the environment through an integrated rodent control program. This citywide initiative combines community outreach, surveys, abatement, and interagency enforcement to eliminate food sources and address rodent activity on both public and private property.

Rodent Control Resources:

• Rodent Control Tips for Residents and Business Owners
• Rodent Control Strategies for Property Managers
• File a Complaint
• Rodent Control Service Petition Form (PDF)
• Using Dumpsters to Prevent Rodent Problems
• Rodent Control Management Diagram (PDF)
• The Changing Seasons
• Regulations
• Final Rulemaking for Public Health Nuisances and Rodent Control Infractions