Charles County, MD Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)

Chapter 85, Nuisances; Public Health, § 85-2 declares that conditions on residential property affording a breeding place for or attracting insects, rodents, or reptiles are unhealthy public nuisances, alongside trash accumulations, tall noxious growth, grease or oil, and exterior building disrepair. Under § 85-3, either landowners from the same election district, a landowners' association, or the County Commissioners' own designee can trigger enforcement: the County Commissioners issue a written complaint giving the owner a 30-day deadline to abate, followed by a hearing before the Nuisance Abatement Board no sooner than four days and no later than 30 days after that deadline.

If the Board finds a § 85-2 condition exists, § 85-3D requires it to issue written findings and order the owner, within 14 days of notice, to remove the offending condition or correct the disrepair. Notice under § 85-4 is served personally or by certified mail, and posted on the property. An owner has 14 calendar days under § 85-5 to appeal to the County Commissioners or their designee, and a further 14 days to appeal that decision to the full Board of County Commissioners; filing an appeal stays the compliance clock.