Kent requires property owners to keep buildings free of rodents, insects, and other vermin under the Property Maintenance Code. Chronic infestations can trigger code enforcement action.
Kent has adopted the International Property Maintenance Code provisions that require owners and occupants to keep structures and premises free of insect and rodent infestations. Rats, cockroaches, bed bugs, and wasp nests threatening public passage are all actionable conditions. Owners of rental property must provide pest-free units at move-in and address infestations that affect multiple tenants under RCW 59.18 (Residential Landlord-Tenant Act). Licensed pest applicators must follow Washington Department of Agriculture rules under RCW 17.21 (Washington Pesticide Application Act) and WAC 16-228. Dumpsters and trash enclosures must have tight-fitting lids to prevent rodent harborage, especially near Green River, Mill Creek, and warehouse districts where food debris and standing water are common. Repeated infestation complaints from neighbors or tenants can result in Kent Code Enforcement citations and a compliance order to hire a licensed pest control company.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how other cities in King County handle pest control.
See how Kent's pest control rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.