Rockdale County, GA Public Health Rules: Rodent Control (2026)

Section 42-72, in the Nuisances Generally article of Chapter 42, lists seven specific unsanitary conditions the county has already decided are nuisances, so a property owner cannot argue a condition is merely unsightly rather than unlawful once it fits one of the seven. The third item on that list bars trash, garbage, refuse or any foul, decaying or putrescent material "kept or used in such a manner or place as to be or become a nuisance or breeding place for rodents," language broad enough to reach uncovered garbage cans, stored food waste, and accumulated yard debris alike.

The health officer, defined at section 42-71 as the chief executive of the county board of health or an authorized representative, gives written notice before requiring the condition to be corrected, rather than issuing an immediate citation. Section 42-73 backs that authority with an inspection power: the health officer can enter any premises at reasonable times to inspect and investigate, take and examine samples of a suspected nuisance, and no person is allowed to refuse entry, molest or resist the health officer in carrying out those duties, though the health officer retains discretion to decline anonymous complaints.

The same section 42-72 list also separately regulates keeping horses, hogs, dogs, rabbits and fowl at minimum setback distances from occupied buildings, but the rodent-breeding clause applies independently of whether any animals are kept on the property.