RATS/Rodent Control Information

If you see a rat, immediately contact the Building Department (716/873-5700). A Code Enforcement Officer will be happy to look at your property to confirm the presence of rats on your property, and/or possible habitats or food sources.  The Village of Kenmore does not bait properties, nor do we have authority to enter onto private property without the consent of the owner or other person residing on that property.  Therefore, if rats are suspected, the Village will contact the Erie County Health Department which has this authorization.

You may also contact the Erie County Department of Health directly at (716/961-6800).

Please be aware that, during dry spells, rats become bold as they search for water. You are more likely to see rats out during periods of high temperature and little rain. If you run your sprinkler, be careful not to let water pool on the concrete as this will attract rodents.

You can also help to keep rats out of your neighborhood by following some simple steps:

1. KEEP THE TOTE LID CLOSED! This simple step will eliminate access to your garbage (a primary rodent food source).

2. PICK UP AFTER YOUR PET! Pick up any animal waste in your yard. This is also a food source for rats.

3. RAISE ANY WOOD PILES OFF THE GROUND! Rats like to live in wood piles.

4. SKIP THE BIRDSEED! Bird seed (and bread) spills over onto the ground attracting rats. Please note that under Erie County and Village law, bird feeders can only be used which are designed to prevent seed from dropping out of the feeder.

5. CUT DOWN WEEDS. Overgrowth of weeds is a prime harbor for rats. Please cut down weeds located on your property. Typical problem areas include that space behind your garage and around/between fences.

6. DON’T ALLOW WATER TO POOL/COLLECT, especially during dry spells. Rats are looking for water sources and a puddle area on your driveway or patio will attract them. Do not leave out water for your pets or for birds as this will attract rats, too.

7. LET US KNOW IF YOU SEE ANY RATS! – Or if you observe your neighbors violating any of the above steps. While the Village cannot bait, we may be able to help identify the source location of the rats and will send out literature to advise your neighbors to the problem and to remind them of steps needing to be taken to get rid of the problem.

If you see a rat, here’s what you should do:

1. Call the Erie County Department of Health (961-6800).  The County can bait your property.
2. Call the Building Department (873-5700).  We will inspect the property to see if we can locate the source of the rats.  In addition, we can send out literature to your neighbors to let them know that there has been a rat sighting and what steps they can do to help eliminate the presence of rats in your vicinity.