What are the signs of rodent infestation?
- Fresh tracks or droppings observed inside of a structure or on the exterior property;
- Active burrows or mounds seen on the exterior of the property;
- Active runway or rub marks on the exterior of structures;
- Actual live rodents seen inside of a structure or on the exterior property; or
- Evidence of holes chewed into trash cans, accessory structures and other containers stored on the exterior of the property.
How do I prevent having rodents on my property?
For the best prevention, remove food sources and those conditions that allow rodents to set up housing on a property. These efforts combined with the use of rodenticides are effective means in managing the rodent population on a property and within a structure. It may be necessary to consult a trained pest control professional. The following are other prevention steps you can take:
- Make sure all trash is stored in outdoor trash containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Eliminate pet waste, pet food and bird seed.
- Eliminate tall weeds and vegetation.
- Elevate stored materials on a property to 12 inches above the ground surface and from exterior walls.
- Seal all exterior openings on structures.
- Check the property for rodent activity on a regular basis.
Who is responsible for exterminating a property?
- Landlord: The owner or landlord is responsible for exterminating rodents and other pests prior to renting or leasing the structure.
- Tenant: Once a structure is leased or rented, the occupant is responsible for maintaining a rodent and pest-free condition within a structure. Exception: The owner is responsible for extermination if a structural defect is identified that is causing the rodent infestation.
Multiple Dwellings/Rooming Houses:
The owner is responsible for extermination in public or shared areas of the property.
- Owner-Occupied: The owner of a structure is responsible for extermination within a structure.
- Single Occupant of a Single Family Dwelling or Single Tenant of a Non-Residential Structure: The occupant is responsible for extermination on the exterior of the property.
What constitutes a violation?
The Department of Health determines that a violation exists when any of the previously described conditions are observed. Enforcement is initiated on a complaint basis or where community surveys are performed by the Department of Health.
How do I file a complaint?
County residents may file a complaint by calling the Department of Health at the number listed below. The initial inspection will be conducted within 10 business days of receiving the complaint. The public may contact the Department of Health to receive updates of inspection results and enforcement procedures.
What happens if a homeowner fails to comply?
Failure to comply constitutes a violation of the Anne Arundel County Property Maintenance Code and is subject to warnings, notices, and civil fines of $125 for the first violation, $500 for the second violation and $1,000 for the third and any subsequent violations. Citations may be issued for each violation and for each day the violation continues to exist.
Where can I obtain more information?
Housing Protection Services Program Anne Arundel County Department of Health 3 Harry S. Truman Parkway Annapolis, Maryland 21401 410-222-7192