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Rodent Control

Rodent Control


The City of Chicago has an aggressive program to combat rodent infestation across the city. Chicago's Bureau of Rodent Control investigates all rat sightings and rodenticide is placed in rat burrows. Crews are also able to provide technical assistance on "rat-proofing" private property.


Many of the rodent problems that are reported are highly preventable. In addition to residents containing their garbage, dog owners need to clean up after their pets and make sure waste materials are disposed of in sealed containers. This waste can be a staple in the urban rat's diet. If dog owners fail to clean after their pets, they are essentially, attracting and helping to sustain rats. You can also help by making sure your trash is properly contained. Exposed garbage is the primary reason rodents proliferate. When garbage carts are securely closed it helps to cut off the food supply and then rats will eat the rodenticide.


If you notice a rodent problem, please report the issue either by using the City of Chicago's 311 System or by calling the 26th Ward office at (773) 276-4269 to have the area baited.


 


Other Steps You Can Take to Rat Proof Your Home Include:  


•        Clean debris and other garbage outside your property that could potentially house rodents, including old lumber, brick piles, junk autos, old equipment, etc.  If you need to store these materials, place them at least 18 inches above ground (or floor) level and at least one foot away from any wall or fence.


•        Look for points of entry, holes in pavement, walls, windows and doors and take measures to close these entry ways.


•        Another common rat harborage area is the small easement space between two adjoining buildings that runs between the street and the alley. Often this space is too narrow for a person to walk through, making it more secure for rats to set up housekeeping. Both property owners should work together to anchor a strip of sheet metal connecting the property walls from the ground level to a height of at least seven feet. This metal can be pre-colored, particularly on the street side, to complement the appearance of the buildings.


•        For larger easement openings which often house air conditioners or other exterior equipment, a tightly sealed metal locked door with a concrete threshold at each end will restrict access to this space