Rats have historically been a problem in human living environments. The most common rat in Baltimore is the Norway Rat also known as the Brown Rat. They are a source of disease, cause property damage, and negatively impact the image of communities.

Good sanitation practices are the best way to control rat populations. Rats need food, water, and shelter. Eliminating these factors will result in a reduction in the rodent population. Follow the below tips to decrease and prevent rat problems. 

• Use a trash can with a tight-fitting lid. This is the law for a reason! Do not place bagged trash out for collection, rats will chew through the bags. 
  • DPW provides one trash can to each single-family household in the City. Please visit the Trash and Recycling Services page for more information
• Remove leftover pet food and waste every day from your yard. Animal waste contains undigested pet food that rats eat.
• Remove old furniture, vehicles, and appliances from your outdoor property. These objects give rats a home. More information on removing bulk trash
• Mow tall grass and weeds. Keeping grass short eliminates hiding places for rats.

If you think you have a rat problem, please call 311 or submit an online service request for DPW’s Rat Rubout program to inspect the area, and if necessary, bait the area. Please note, residents must complete and submit a right of entry form before we can enter private property. 

Rat Baiting Procedure

• A pest control worker will inspect the property and look for an active rat burrow. Employees can only apply the poisonous bait if a burrow is present because the chemicals are placed deep inside the burrow.
• The pest control worker will place yellow flags in each burrow that was treated and will leave a hand card to let residents know that it was treated.
• Pets should not be able to access the poisonous chemicals unless they dig deep into the burrows. If your cat or dog does eat the poison, it is advisable to seek medical attention with your veterinarian or poison control. While not fatal for animals larger than rats, the chemicals could make your pet ill if consumed.