Rodent Control

Protecting your home from rodents

By adhering to the following guidelines, the food source will be eliminated and rodent activity should cease.

All trash/garbage should be contained in rodent-proof, watertight containers with tight-fitting lids. This is of the utmost importance.

  • Bird feeders should be arranged so that seeds cannot fall on the ground.
  • Overgrowth of grass and weeds should be cut and removed.
  • Food from vegetable gardens and fruit trees should not remain on the ground.
  • Pet owners should clean droppings on exterior premises frequently and keep pet food indoors.
  • Areas of dilapidation or clutter provide good hiding places and should be examined closely.
  • Sink holes or burrows around your property should be covered by solidly packed dirt and monitored.
  • Firewood should be stored at least 18” above the ground.
  • If composting, use a rodent-proof composter with a tight fitting lid and discontinue adding kitchen scraps to the composter if rodent activity is present.

Rodent proof your home. Openings, such as, ground floor windows, basement vents, utility pipe openings, and foundation walls should be secured to prevent the entry of rodents. Basic sanitation within the home and on the exterior is required under the State Sanitary Code 105 CMR 410.

If rodent activity is noted on private property, the service of a licensed exterminator is recommended.

If you have any questions, contact the Health Department at: (781) 596-8864

Rodent Control Informational Flyer, click here