Fargo, ND Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Storage clearance
- 18 inches off ground minimum
- Enforcement
- City health officer
- Repeat violation window
- 18 months triggers standing order
- Standing order length
- Up to 8 months
Summary
Fargo property owners can't stack lumber, boxes, or debris in ways that let rats and vermin nest, under City Code § 11-0804.
It shall be unlawful for any person to accumulate on any premises, improved or vacant, or on any open lots and alleys in the city, any lumber, boxes, barrels, bricks, stones, or similar material that may be permitted to remain thereon, unless the same shall be placed on open racks that are elevated not less than 18 inches from the ground and evenly piled or stacked so that these materials will not afford harborage for vermin.
Full Breakdown
City Code § 11-0804 makes it unlawful to pile lumber, boxes, barrels, bricks, stones, or similar material on any premises, improved or vacant, or on open lots and alleys, unless it sits on open racks elevated at least 18 inches off the ground and is stacked evenly so it can't harbor vermin. The health officer treats a violation as a nuisance under Article 11-08 and orders it abated by a deadline; repeat offenders within 18 months can get a standing compliance order lasting up to 8 months, with abatement costs charged back to the property.
Violations & Fines
Health officer issues a written notice with an abatement deadline; unresolved violations lead to city abatement with costs assessed against the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stack firewood or lumber in my Fargo yard?
What happens if my property is cited for vermin harborage?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fargo
Compare Fargo to another location·View the North Dakota public health rules overview
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