Battle Creek, MI Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)

Section 1064.23 of the Battle Creek Codified Ordinances is the City's working rodent and vector control rule for residential property. Under subsection (a), every owner, occupant or person in possession of residential premises must provide adequate numbers of proper containers, locate them so they are not overturned, and keep containers and recycling bins or carts in a clean and sanitary condition and free from any substance which would attract or breed flies, mosquitos or other insects or attract vermin. Subsection (b) sets the build: substantial plastic, metal or fiberglass, a tightly fitting lid, portable, watertight, vector and vermin proof, with handles or bails. Section 1064.06 defines a container as twenty gallons or greater but not more than thirty-two gallons.

Subsection (e) closes the plastic bag loophole. Plastic bags cannot serve for unprotected outdoor storage of refuse, other than for leaves or lawn debris, except for set-out for scheduled collection under Section 1064.27. Storage of bagged refuse counts as unprotected unless the bags are liners for galvanized metal or other approved cans, or sit in an enclosure affording reasonable protection from damage by animals. Section 1064.26(c) adds that containers must be placed where collectors can empty them without attack from animals.

Section 1064.28 backs this up with a nuisance rule. Accumulations or deposits of refuse remaining on premises are declared a nuisance, and no owner or occupant of a residential unit can permit refuse to accumulate for more than seven days. The City investigates, serves written notice with the corrective action and a reasonable time limit, and carries out the abatement itself if the notice is ignored. The cost becomes a debt owed the City and is charged against the premises under Chapter 216 of the Administration Code.