Des Moines, IA Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Business buildings citywide
- Core duty
- Ratproof and rat-free at all times
- Owner repair duty
- Fix breaks or leaks without city order
- Eradication deadline
- 5 days after infestation notice
- Enforcement
- Health officer inspection and condemnation power
Summary
Business buildings within Des Moines must be ratproofed and kept rat-free under Municipal Code Article V, with the health officer authorized to order repairs, eradication measures, and even condemnation for buildings that harbor rats.
All business buildings in the city shall be ratproofed, freed of rats and maintained in a ratproof and ratfree condition.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under Des Moines Municipal Code § 54-162, every business building in the city must be ratproofed, freed of rats, and kept in a ratproof and ratfree condition. Owners must maintain that ratproofing and repair any breaks or leaks without waiting for a city order (§ 54-166). The health officer can make unannounced inspections (§ 54-167), and written notice must allow at least 15 days to complete required work (§ 54-163, § 54-164). Owners or occupants of any building, vacant lot, or alley who get notice of rat infestation must begin eradication within five days (§ 54-165). Persistent harborage can lead to condemnation proceedings (§ 54-169).
Violations & Fines
Failing to ratproof after notice, or to begin rat eradication within 5 days of an infestation notice, is an offense under Article V; unspecified violations default to a misdemeanor or $750 municipal infraction under § 1-15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to homes or only businesses in Des Moines?
How long do I have to fix a rat problem after the city notifies me?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
Compare Des Moines to another location·View the Iowa public health rules overview
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