Spokane property owners must keep dwellings free of rodents and insects under SMC 10.44 (property maintenance). Pesticide applicators must be licensed by WSDA. Bed bug infestations in rental housing are addressed under RCW 59.18 landlord-tenant rules.
Under the Spokane Code Enforcement program and SMC Chapter 10.44, property owners and tenants must maintain premises free of rodent harborage, cockroaches, bed bugs, and other vermin. Commercial pesticide applicators must hold a Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) license under RCW 17.21. The Spokane Regional Health District investigates public-health complaints for severe infestations. Rental property owners have habitability obligations under the WA Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18.060) to keep units reasonably free of pests. Rodent-proofing (sealing openings, clearing debris, managing garbage) is required. Spokane prohibits accumulation of refuse or vegetation that harbors rats under SMC 10.08 nuisance abatement.
Code Enforcement can issue notices of violation with 10-day cure periods. Chronic nuisance properties face civil penalties up to $500 per day under SMC 10.08A.
See how Spokane's pest control rules stack up against other locations.
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