Baytown, TX Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)

Section 42-61 of the Baytown Code, part of the public health nuisances division of chapter 42, declares that nuisances described in the division are prohibited within the corporate limits and within 5,000 feet beyond them, for both residential and non-residential property. Subsection (c)(6) sets the specific rodent standard: all properties shall be kept reasonably free from sources of insect, vermin and rodent breeding, harborage and infestation, and where such breeding areas, harborage or infestation exist, they must be eliminated. This sits alongside related minimum standards in the same section requiring organic and inorganic material that could become a fire or health hazard to be removed, weeds and brush to be cut before they become a health or fire hazard, and covered containers to be used for garbage and rubbish storage.

Section 42-62(a) separately makes it unlawful for anyone owning, occupying or controlling real property to allow filth, carrion, refuse or unwholesome matter to accumulate or be carried by wind onto nearby property. When an inspector finds a rodent-harborage violation, section 42-64 requires actual notice to the owner or occupant, plus mailed notice to the address of record in the county appraisal district, with notice by publication or posting if personal service cannot be achieved; the notice must describe the objectionable conditions and the time allowed to cure them.