Code Compliance

Code Compliance Alert:

CONTACT INFORMATION: Code Compliance is open 8AM - 4PM Mon-Thurs and 9:15AM - 4PM Fridays.

703-324-1300 TTY 711

12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016
Fairfax, VA 22035

Gabriel M. Zakkak
Director

Department Resources

Pest Infestation and Rodent Harborage

In some situations, pest infestation and rodent harborage may be a violation of the Virginia Property Maintenance Code (VPMC).

If an Investigator finds sufficient evidence to make a determination that there is an infestation per the definition of Chapter 2 of the VPMC, or rodent harborage, the responsible party for the structure will be issued a Notice of Violation directing them to abate the violation by hiring the services of a professional pest control operator and implementing property exclusionary methods to keep pests from infesting the structure.

The presence of pests within a structure that do not meet the infestation definition, or does not qualify as rodent harborage, is not regulated by the VPMC or subject to enforcement action by DCC.

Regulations on Infestation

Section 309 of the VPMC states, “All structures shall be kept free from insect and rodent infestation. Structures in which insects or rodents are found shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious to human health. After extermination, proper precautions shall be taken to prevent reinfestation.”

Chapter 2 of the VPMC defines infestation as, “The presence of insects, rodents, vermin, or other pests in sufficient number to adversely affect the structure or health, safety, and welfare of the occupants.”

Regulations on Rodent Harborage

Section 302.5 of the VPMC states, “All structures shall be kept free from rodent harborage and infestation. Structures in which rodents are found shall be promptly exterminated by approved processes that will not be injurious to human health.”