Manchester, CT Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)

Code of Ordinances § 242-19A requires that "all exterior property and premises and the interior of every structure shall be free from any accumulation of rubbish or garbage." Section 242-19C requires every occupant to store and dispose of food-attracting materials in a clean, safe and sanitary manner, and specifies that "all garbage cans and refuse containers shall be ratproof, insectproof, watertight, structurally strong to withstand handling stress, and easily filled, emptied and cleaned," with tight-fitting covers and self-closing lids on bulk containers; plastic bags may only serve as liners, not stand-alone outdoor storage, unless the code official approves a ratproof, insectproof exception.

Section 242-19B(1) puts the duty to supply rubbish containers on tenants for one- to four-unit dwellings and on owners for buildings of five units or more, and § 242-19C(1) mirrors that split for garbage facilities. The chapter's structural sections reinforce the same rat-exclusion goal: § 242-17E requires foundation walls to be kept "in such condition so as to prevent the entry of rats," § 242-17Q requires basement hatchways maintained to prevent the entrance of rats, and § 242-17R requires openable basement windows to carry ratproof shields or storm windows.

Separately, § 242-20 requires prompt extermination of any structure found infested, putting that duty on the owner before renting a unit and on multi-unit owners for shared areas, with infestations caused by an occupant's own failure to maintain the space becoming that occupant's cost.