Pest Control: Auburn vs Seattle
How do pest control rules compare between Auburn, WA and Seattle, WA?
Auburn and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn property owners must control rats, insects, and other vermin under ACC Chapter 8.12 nuisances and International Property Maintenance Code standards, with complaints handled by city code enforcement.
View full Auburn rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle requires landlords to maintain rental properties free of pest infestations under the Housing and Building Maintenance Code (SMC 22.206). The city encourages integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Commercial pesticide applicators must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Agriculture under RCW 17.21.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Code | ACC 8.12 + IPMC | - |
| Rodent Sealing | Openings over 1/4 inch must be closed | - |
| Trash Lids | Must be tight-fitting | - |
| Pesticide License | Required per RCW 17.21 | - |
| Report | (253) 931-3000 | - |
| Landlord Duty | - | Maintain premises free of infestations |
| Governing Code | - | SMC 22.206 Housing Maintenance Code |
| Applicator Licensing | - | Required under RCW 17.21 |
| IPM | - | Encouraged by city policy |
| Bed Bugs | - | Landlord responsible for treatment costs |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Who is responsible for rat control in a rental property?
Landlords must keep rental units free of infestations under RCW 59.18 habitability rules; tenants are responsible for sanitation practices that cause new infestations.
Can I apply my own pesticide outdoors in Auburn?
Homeowners may apply general-use pesticides on their own property per label directions; any commercial or restricted-use application requires a Washington State Department of Agriculture license.
Seattle FAQ
Is my Seattle landlord responsible for pest control?
Yes. Under SMC 22.206, landlords must maintain rental properties free of pest infestations. Landlords are responsible for pest control in common areas and for infestations caused by building conditions.
Do pest control companies need a license in Seattle?
Yes. All commercial pesticide applicators must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Agriculture under RCW 17.21.
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