Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 10 requires property owners to keep premises free from insect and rodent infestation. The Houston Health Department runs Vector Control programs for mosquitoes and rodents, and issues abatement orders.
Under Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 10, Article IX (Building Standards), property owners must maintain structures free from insect and rodent infestation. The Houston Health Department's Bureau of Pollution Control and Prevention operates mosquito surveillance and spraying programs. The department's Environmental Health division handles rodent complaints. For construction sites, Houston requires an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan prepared by a PA-licensed pest control company for projects in areas with known rodent activity. The plan must include an initial site survey, treatment methods, MSDS information for rodenticides, and a monitoring schedule. Bed bug infestations in rental properties fall under the landlord's maintenance obligations. The Harris County Public Health department coordinates region-wide mosquito control including aerial spraying during outbreaks.
Building standards violations result in notice to abate followed by fines. The city may abate the nuisance and assess costs against the property. Report pest infestations to 311 or the Houston Health Department.
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