Rodent Inspection & Control
The
Vector Control Program enforces rodent control under
Berkeley Municipal Code (Chapter 11.32) by investigating all requests for service concerning rodents and rodent harborage and rendering appropriate services in response.
Property Inspection and Consultation
Requests for service from the public include not only complaints, but also requests from tenants or property owners for assistance in removing rodents or insects from their property. In response to the requests, the Vector Control staffs can conduct in-depth inspections, issue inspection reports, and provide consultation and recommendation to exclude, control, and prevent rodents.
In addition, the staffs provide identification services and educate people on a one-to-one basis or in groups of tenants, neighborhood associations, or property owners via phone consulations, literatures, and outreach events. For on-line educational information on rodents, see Control & Prevention of Rodents.
Overgrown Vegetation & Rodent Harborage Issues
The Vector Control staffs also respond to requests for service concerning overgrown vegetation, trash, garbage and debris accumulations, which contribute to rodent harborage issues. See Waste Management for details regarding enforcement.
Sewer Inspection & Baiting
The Vector Control staffs make a special effort to control Norway rats by monitoring sanitary sewers throughout the city. The staffs conduct periodic, regular inspection of sewer access covers and perform appropriate follow up treatment if rodent presence or activity detected. Each year, a team of two or more Vector Control staffs inspect and bait over 1700 sewer manholes, as necessary. Vector Control Technicians are certified by the state and trained in safe handling of bait.
In addition, the Vector Control staffs work closely in conjunction with the city Public Works Department to investigate, dye test, and repair broken sewer lines or laterals which may allow rats into neighborhood. The city Public Works staff routinely inspects sewers and reports evidence of rodent infestations to the Vector Control staff.
General Surveillance
The Vector Control staffs regularly conduct surveys and inspections throughout the city as a measure of surveillance for rodents and other vectors. The areas that are routinely surveyed and inspected include:
Neighborhood/Block
Waterfront/Shoreline
Parks
Vacant Lots
During the suvey, the staffs check for active signs of rodents, as well as sources of food, water, and harborage of rodents. If the staffs find evidences of rodent infestation or conclude that the area is at risk of potential rodent or other vector infestation, they will take necessary control measures.
Do you need assistance or wish to report a complaint?
Complete an on-line Request for Service form, or phone Environmental Health at (510) 981-5310 and TDD (510) 981-6903, or send an email to envhealth@ci.berkeley.ca.us.