Rodents such as mice and rats can spread dangerous bacteria and even the rabies virus in some rare cases. Rodents can also damage homes and other buildings. To assist residents, The Department of Code Compliance (DCC) can investigate some rodent-related issues. Examples of when DCC may be able to help are when:

• Tenants have rodents in their home that they did not cause, and the landlord or property manager is not responding to requests to remove the rodents.
• A resident knows about a home with a potential rodent infestation and wants DCC to investigate. 

DCC’s authority in these cases is limited to what is enforced under the Virginia Property Maintenance Code. This means DCC can only issue a Notice of Violation (NOV) when there is identified rodent harborage or an infestation (i.e. several rodents). The Code only applies if the rodents have affected the structure, which means outdoor areas and yards may still have rodent issues that DCC cannot address directly. However, if storage of equipment, materials, or supplies is excessive that may be enforced under rules for Outdoor Storage.

If DCC finds an infestation, staff will try to work with the property owner to correct the problem. While DCC prefers to solve issues through cooperation, the department may seek civil penalties or a court order if the problem continues and the owner does not cooperate.

DCC cannot assist in every situation, and even well-maintained properties can sometimes have rodent problems. The following recommendations can help reduce the chances that rodents will come onto your property or into your home.

• Store firewood at least 12 inches above ground and not up against your house.
• Store birdseed and pet food indoors, above floor-level, in a tightly sealed container.
• Check the ground beneath fruit-bearing plants or trees and remove any fallen food.
• Reduce standing water by keeping gutters unclogged and following other recommendations of the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District.
• Check your home’s exterior in the Spring and Autumn for holes, and seal any holes found.
• Maintain yard free of pet waste (a significant magnet for rodents).
• Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed, leaves raked, and grass mowed. Most properties less than one-half an acre (under 21,780 square feet) are subject to grass height limitations (“Grass Ordinance”). 

If you see rodents in a restaurant or hotel, you can make a report to the Health Department using the PLUS system or by calling 703-246-2201, TTY 711.

DCC is here to help – if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.