Rodent Control
How big is the rat problem in Berkley?
Hearing some stories might make you think the City is about to be overrun by rats. The truth is there have been some isolated sightings of rats in the city, but we are by no means overrun.
Three things will help us stay on top of the problem:
- Understand what causes the problem
- Take steps to eliminate the problem
- Continue to monitor the situation
Why do we have a problem?
All living things need at least two basic elements for survival – food and shelter. Eliminating these resources will go a long way towards getting the rats out of Berkley. Proper property maintenance is your best tool in this regard.
Did you know?
- The word rodent means "to gnaw"? Rats can gnaw through building materials - including lead sheathing, cinder block, aluminum siding and some concrete.
- They are able to squeeze through very small openings: 1/4 inch for mice and 1/2 inch for rats.
What is the City doing?
The City recently revised the nuisance ordinance to strengthen the fight against rats. Provisions in the new ordinance include:
- Prohibiting feeding wild birds other than by means of bird feeders (this means no scattering of bread crumbs or other food on the ground) and specifies that bird feeders must be at least 48 inches above ground. Be sure to keep the area around the feeder free from any spilled food.
- Requires that property be kept free of dog droppings, uneaten food, and improperly composted waste. (For information on proper composting contact the Public Works Department.)
- Prohibit pet owners from leaving pet or human food outside on the ground or in open containers where it is accessible to rats. Feed and water your pets indoors. If we take away their food source – they will have to move on.
- Requires watertight plastic or metal containers for all garbage that is stored outside. The containers must have tight fitting covers to keep rats out. Plastic bags are not rat proof and cannot not be used for overnight outside storage. (Exception: plastic bags can be placed at curbside for weekly trash pickup.)
What can residents do?
With strict adherence to a few simple guidelines, rats can be convinced to move on. Read and follow the guidelines above. Then take a look around your property and see where you might need to make some changes to keep rats off of your property.
If you see a rat problem in your neighborhood – call code enforcement at 248-546-2410 or animal control at 248-541-9000.
Check here for additional tips.
It’s important to stay on top of the situation. Once you've eliminated sources of food and shelter for rats stay vigilant.
Property owners that allow conditions that attract rats may face civil and criminal fines. Take some time to review these steps, then monitor your property to see if there are ways to make it less attractive to rats.
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