Buffalo, NY Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Screening period for rental units
- June 1 to October 1
- Minimum screen mesh
- No. 15 mesh or finer
- Floors covered for screening requirement
- Up to and including 3rd story
Summary
All grounds, buildings, and structures in Buffalo must be maintained free of insects, vermin, and rodent harborage; occupied rental units up to the third story must have No. 15 mesh or finer window screens installed from June 1 to October 1.
Grounds, buildings and structures shall be maintained free of insects, vermin and rodent harborage and infestation. Methods used for exterminating insects, vermin and rodents shall conform to generally accepted practice. Where the potential for rodent or vermin infestation exists, windows and other openings in basements, crawl spaces and cellars used for ventilation shall be appropriately screened with wire mesh or other suitable materials. All exterior openings that are used for ventilation in all occupied rented dwelling units, up to and including the third story, shall have installed therein screening of No. 15 mesh or finer from June 1 to October 1 in each year. In any dwelling where mechanical ventilation is supplied, screens shall only be required in areas using natural ventilation. All screens shall be maintained in good condition.
Full Breakdown
Extermination methods must conform to generally accepted practice. Windows and openings in basements, crawl spaces, and cellars used for ventilation must be screened with wire mesh or other suitable material where rodent or vermin infestation risk exists. All occupied rented dwelling units up to the third story must have No. 15 mesh or finer screens installed during June 1 through October 1. Buildings with mechanical ventilation need screens only in areas using natural ventilation.
Violations & Fines
Violations are enforced under the general penalty provisions of Chapter 137. The Commissioner of Permit and Inspection Services may issue notices and engage City forces or contractors to remedy infestations at the owner's cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I required to have window screens in my rental property?
Who is responsible for keeping the building free of pests?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
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