How Do I Report a Rodent Problem to NYC?

January 10, 2026

Spotted rat tracks in your NYC kitchen or heard suspicious midnight scratches? You're not alone-rodents plague the city, but swift reporting keeps them in check. This guide walks you through spotting infestations, dialing 311 or using the NYC Health Department, nailing the online/phone process, and prepping for quick fixes. Ready to reclaim your space? Let's dive in!

Understanding NYC Rodent Reporting

New York City faces over 18,000 rodent complaints monthly through 311, with rats outnumbering humans 2-to-1 according to the 2023 NYC Rat Index. The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) manages this rodent crisis with a $3.3 million annual budget for vector control. These efforts target urban pests like rats in sewers and subways.

Tip: Want to sanity-check a specific address? Search it on Building Health X to see recent heat/hot water, pests, noise, safety and violations across 30/90 days, 1 year and 3 years.

Rat Czar Jessica Tisch leads the city's rodent reduction program, coordinating with DSNY and local patrols. Residents report issues via the primary channel, 311 service, for rat sightings, rodent droppings, or infestations. This non-emergency line handles vermin complaints efficiently.

Use the NYC 311 app or online rodent report for quick submission of photos showing rat holes or gnaw marks. Track your 311 ticket for follow-up on baiting or inspections. The system supports community rodent reporting in high-risk areas.

Understanding this process helps address building rodent issues or neighborhood rat problems promptly. DOHMH's Bureau of Vector Control deploys rodent inspectors for weekly checks and data-driven control. Proper reporting aids pest management in NYC.

Common Rodents in NYC

NYC hosts primarily Norway rats, roof rats, house mice, and occasional deer mice, each with distinct habits per DOHMH Vector Control data. Identifying these New York City pests is key before you report a rodent problem. Look for size, color, droppings, or burrows to distinguish species.

Norway rats thrive in sewers and subways, while roof rats climb attics and trees. House mice invade buildings, and deer mice appear in parks. Spotting these helps tailor your NYC rat complaint for faster response from pest control NYC teams.

Species	Size	Color/Markings	Habitats	Health Risks
Norway Rat	10" body	Brown/gray	Sewers/subways	Leptospirosis
Roof Rat	8" body	Black/sleek	Attics/trees	Salmonella
House Mouse	3-4" body	Light brown	Buildings	Hantavirus
Deer Mouse	3-4" body	White belly	Parks	Hantavirus

Report Norway rats via 311 for subway rats NYC or sewer rats, noting large droppings like rice grains. For roof rats, mention tree nests or attic activity in your vermin complaint. House mice reports should highlight indoor gnaw marks; deer mice need park location details for vector control NYC.

Examples include blunt-nosed Norway rats near garbage or sleek black roof rats on power lines. Attach photos of rodent nests or urine stains to your online rodent report. This aids subsidized rodent control and IPM strategies like sealing entry points.

Assess Your Rodent Problem

Before reporting, confirm infestation. NYC DOHMH requires evidence like droppings or burrows for priority response. Accurate assessment prevents false reports to 311 service.

NYC Health Code 153.11 requires property owners to address vermin. Check for clear signs before filing a NYC rat complaint or vermin complaint. This ensures rodent control efforts focus on real issues.

Observe your space carefully. Note patterns of rodent activity such as night sounds or fresh damage. Document findings with photos for your online rodent report or call to 311 NYC.

Landlords face responsibility for building rodent issues under tenant rights for pests. Tenants in co-ops or condos should report to management first. Proper assessment supports effective pest management NYC.

Signs of Infestation

Look for 5 key signs: droppings (rice-sized for mice, jellybean for rats), greasy rub marks, gnaw marks on wood or wires, burrows (2-4" diameter), and ammonia urine smell. These indicate an active rodent infestation. Spotting them helps prioritize your report rats or report mice action.

Use this numbered diagnostic checklist to confirm severity.

Droppings count: Fresh, soft droppings mean active pests. Mice leave small, pointed ones; rats leave larger, blunt ones.
Fresh burrows: Look for moist dirt at rat holes near foundations or walls. Measure 2-4 inches wide for rats.
Runways: Dark, greasy streaks along walls from rodent rub marks. Wipe them; they reappear if active.
Nest materials: Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in hidden spots signal rodent nests.
Sounds: Scratching or scurrying at night points to house mice or Norway rats.

Match findings to a severity scale: mild (few signs), moderate (multiple signs weekly), severe (widespread damage or rodent urine odor). Severe cases qualify for DSNY rodents or NYC health department response. Take photos of gnaw marks for your 311 ticket.

Common in high-risk areas like subway rats NYC or parks. Report dead rats or fresh rodent droppings promptly via NYC 311 app. This aids vector control NYC tracking.

Official Reporting Channels

NYC routes most rodent complaints through 311, which coordinates responses from DSNY, DOHMH, and HPD based on location and severity. This central system handles rat sightings, rodent droppings, and infestations efficiently. It connects residents to the right agency for inspections, baiting, or enforcement.

The 311 Citizen Service acts as the main intake point for non-emergency reports. DOHMH Vector Control focuses on health risks like rat reservoirs in high-risk areas. DSNY manages cleanup and baiting for sanitation-related vermin complaints.

Choose the channel based on your needs, such as visual evidence for severe rodent infestations. Track progress online to ensure follow-up on NYC rat complaints.

Agency	Primary Role	Best For	Response Time
311 Citizen Service	Central intake and triage	All initial report rodent calls	Immediate logging
DOHMH Vector Control	Inspections and health violations	Rat holes, nests, disease risks	24-48 hours
DSNY	Baiting and cleanup	Garbage attracting rats, dead rats	Within days

311 Citizen Service

311 handles 100% of non-emergency rodent reports, serving as the go-to for NYC 311 app users and phone callers. Report rat sightings or mouse problems quickly. This service triages complaints to speed up pest control NYC responses.

Use multiple access methods for convenience. Phone works for detailed descriptions of rodent activity. The app allows photo uploads of burrows or gnaw marks.

Track your ticket online for follow-up on vermin complaints. This ensures accountability in addressing neighborhood rat problems.

Method	Speed	Best For	Contact
Phone (311)	Instant	Detailed reports of rodent nests	311 or 212-NEW-YORK
NYC311 App	Fast upload	Visual evidence like rodent droppings	Mobile app download
Website	Trackable	Multiple locations, rat mitigation	portal.311.nyc.gov
TTY (212-504-4115)	Accessible	Hearing impaired report rats	212-504-4115

NYC Department of Health

DOHMH Bureau of Vector Control conducts annual inspections from 311 referrals, focusing on high-risk rat reservoirs. They target urban pests like Norway rats and house mice. Reports of zoonotic diseases, such as leptospirosis, get priority.

The process starts when 311 auto-forwards health hazards. Vector Control assigns an inspector within 24-48 hours. They use the NYC Rodent Inspection Scorecard to rate sites from 0-100 based on signs like urine or nests.

Violations under NYC Health Code carry fines from $250 to $2000. Businesses can call 646-632-7743 for commercial rodent reports. Landlords face enforcement for building rodent issues.

Inspectors recommend integrated pest management, like sealing entry points. Follow up on bait stations or traps. This data-driven approach helps monitor rodent trends citywide.

Online Reporting Process

Online 311 reports generate tickets instantly with photo uploads, achieving 25% faster response than phone calls per 2023 audit. Most rodent problem reports in NYC now use digital methods through the NYC311 portal at portal.311.nyc.gov. This approach helps the sanitation department NYC prioritize rat sightings and mouse problems efficiently.

Photo evidence doubles inspection priority for issues like rat holes or rodent droppings. Upload clear images of burrows NYC, gnaw marks, or nests to strengthen your NYC rat complaint. The system tracks rodent activity and connects to DSNY rodents teams for quick action.

For building rodent issues or residential rats, describe locations like basements or alleys. This supports vector control NYC and NYC health department efforts against urban pests. Save your Service Request number to track progress on vermin complaints.

Experts recommend combining photos with details on rodent nests or rodent urine stains. This aids pest control NYC in targeting high-risk areas. Online reports fit well for non-emergency rat mitigation and rodent control.

311 Website Steps

Follow these 7 steps to file online: Visit portal.311.nyc.gov, search 'rodent infestation', add address, upload 3-5 photos, describe activity, submit for instant ticket number. This process handles report rodent needs for New York City pests effectively. Use it for 311 service on rat population NYC concerns.

Go to the NYC311 portal and log in if you have an account, though it's optional for quick online rodent report.
Search for 'rodent infestation' or related terms like rats in yard or mice in apartment.
Enter the exact address plus cross streets to pinpoint the neighborhood rat problem.
Select severity level: low for occasional sightings, medium for active signs, high for heavy rodent droppings or entry.
Upload photos of droppings, burrows, or gnaw marks, which are required for rodent inspector NYC priority.
Specify interior or exterior locations, like garbage attracting rats or sewer access points.
Submit and save the Service Request number to track your 311 non-emergency ticket.

A 2-minute video tutorial on the NYC311 site demonstrates these steps for NYC 311 app users too. Common pitfalls include blurry photos or vague addresses, which delay pest management NYC. Double-check details for faster follow-up rodent report.

Common Errors	How to Fix
Vague address or missing cross streets	Include full details like 123 Main St at 4th Ave for accurate DSNY rodents routing
No photos or poor quality images	Upload 3-5 clear shots of rat holes or droppings in good light
Wrong category selected	Choose rodent infestation, not general pests, for proper health code violation rodents handling
Missing severity rating	Rate as high for emergency rodent report if health risks like leptospirosis NYC are present

Phone Reporting Guide

Phone reports via 311 service connect you to live agents 24/7, ideal for urgent building rodent issues or non-English speakers. This method handles complex NYC rat complaints, where agents are trained on NYC Health Code violations. It suits detailed descriptions of rat holes, rodent droppings, or rodent nests in walls.

Agents can guide you on report rodent steps for residential rats or commercial spaces. Mention rat sightings near garbage or gnaw marks for faster response. This is key for rodent infestation beyond simple online forms.

Expect trained help from the NYC Health Department or Sanitation Department NYC. They prioritize emergency rodent reports like rodent urine smells or active burrows NYC. Follow-up ensures rodent control tracks your vermin complaint.

For mouse problems or report mice, describe rodent activity clearly. Agents note health code violation rodents for inspections. This beats the NYC 311 app for real-time questions on pest control NYC.

Calling 311 Tips

Have ready: exact address, three signs of activity, building type, and photos to text for priority. Calling 311 non-emergency starts your NYC rodent program report efficiently. Use the pest hotline for urban pests like subway rats NYC or park issues.

The service offers a language line for over 170 languages, perfect for diverse neighborhoods. Agents assist with DSNY rodents or vector control NYC details. This supports community rodent reporting in high-risk areas.

Follow these pro tips for smooth call 311 NYC experiences:

Call 311, not 911, for rat mitigation or non-emergencies.
Press 1 for English or Spanish options at the start.
Give the 9-digit address or tax lot for precise location.
Specify issues in interior walls or ceilings, like droppings in vents.
Mention children or elderly residents to flag urgency.
Request the inspector name and number for accountability.
Get the ticket number immediately to track your complaint.
Call back with updates on rodent baiting or new rat population NYC signs.

These steps speed up rodent inspector NYC visits and weekly rodent inspections. They help with landlord responsibility rats or tenant rights on pests. Track via follow-up rodent report for pest management NYC results.

What Information to Provide

Complete reports with address, 3+ photos, activity timeline, and locations boost response from 7 days to 48 hours. The NYC Health Department, or DOHMH, requires minimum data to process your rodent problem efficiently. Providing clear details helps vector control teams prioritize high-risk areas like rat holes or rodent droppings.

Focus on specifics to avoid delays in your NYC 311 complaint. Include the exact spot of rat sightings, such as Apt 3B kitchen or basement corner. This allows pest control NYC inspectors to act quickly on rodent infestations.

DOHMH minimum requirements cover location, evidence, and timeline for every vermin complaint. Add impact details and prior steps for a stronger NYC rat complaint. A detailed report triggers faster rodent baiting or inspections.

Here is an example perfect report: "Address: 123 Main St, Apt 2C, Brooklyn. Evidence: 15 rodent droppings under sink, 2 burrows in yard, gnaw marks on cabinets (attached 4 photos). Started 10 days ago, kids scared, landlord notified twice with no fix." This format ensures prompt DSNY rodents response.

Category	Examples	Priority
Location	Apt 3B, basement, backyard near trash	High
Evidence	20 droppings, 2 burrows, nests in walls	High
Timeline	Started 2 weeks ago, worse at night	Medium
Impact	Children scared, food contaminated	Medium
Previous actions	Landlord notified, set snap traps	Medium

Response Times and Follow-Up

311 guarantees response within 7 days by law, but high-risk areas get 24-48hr inspections. Track via app using your 8-digit ticket number from the NYC 311 service. This helps monitor your rodent problem or rat sighting report effectively.

The sanitation department NYC prioritizes based on severity of the rodent infestation. Priority 1 cases, like bites or issues involving children, trigger fast action. Understanding these levels sets clear expectations for your NYC rat complaint.

Priority Level	Response Time	Action Taken
1: Bites or children involved	24 hours	Inspector visit
2: Heavy infestation (50+ droppings)	48 hours	Baiting
3: Standard rodent activity	7 days	Notice to owner
4: Sightings only	14 days	Advisory

Follow up on your vermin complaint using practical steps. Check status at 311.nyc.gov/track with your ticket number. Call 311 and provide the ticket number for updates on DSNY rodents response.

If needed, escalate to 311 Customer Service at 212-NEW-YORK. This ensures progress on issues like rat holes or rodent droppings. Persistent follow-up supports effective pest control NYC.

Preventing Future Issues

NYC's Rodent Mitigation program reduced complaints 18% in pilot neighborhoods through IPM. This approach focuses on sealing gaps larger than 1/4 inch, securing garbage, and eliminating food sources. Residents who follow these steps see fewer rat sightings and rodent infestations.

Integrated pest management (IPM) aligns with NYC DOHMH protocols for rodent control. It emphasizes prevention over reactive measures like baiting. Property owners can avoid sanitation violations carrying fines up to $250 by maintaining clean conditions.

Before implementing prevention, check for signs like rat holes, rodent droppings, or gnaw marks. After steps like sealing entry points, properties show no new burrows NYC or activity. This proactive method supports the city's rodent reduction program.

Seal gaps larger than 1/4 inch using steel wool and caulk to block entry points for mice and rats.
Use lidded and secured garbage cans to prevent garbage attracting rats.
Eliminate standing water sources around buildings and yards.
Clean compost weekly to avoid compost rodent issues.
Place bird feeders at least 10 feet from buildings.
Store pet food in metal containers to deter rodents.
Trim vegetation to keep it 2 feet from walls.
Install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
Conduct monthly IPM inspections for early detection.
Report neighbors' violations via 311 to maintain neighborhood standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Report a Rodent Problem to NYC?

To report a rodent problem in New York City, call 311 or use the 311 online portal at nyc.gov/311. Provide your address, describe the issue (e.g., rats, mice, burrows), and include photos if possible for faster response from the Department of Sanitation's pest control team.

What is the Phone Number to Report a Rodent Problem to NYC?

Dial 311 (or 1-212-NEW-YORK from outside NYC) anytime to report a rodent problem to NYC. It's available 24/7, and operators will dispatch the appropriate pest control services based on your location and description.

How Do I Report a Rodent Problem to NYC Online?

Visit the NYC 311 website at portal.311.nyc.gov or the NYC.gov site, search for "rodent" or "rats," and submit a service request. Include details like sighting locations, frequency, and evidence to help NYC's rodent control team prioritize your report.

Who Handles Rodent Problems Reported to NYC?

The NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Bureau of Pest Control responds to rodent problems reported to NYC. After your 311 report, they inspect and bait properties, focusing on high-infestation areas like parks and buildings.

How Long Does It Take for NYC to Respond to a Rodent Problem Report?

NYC typically responds to rodent problem reports within 1-8 business days, depending on severity and location. Urgent cases with heavy infestations may get same-day attention; track your request via the 311 confirmation number.

What Information Do I Need to Report a Rodent Problem to NYC?

When reporting a rodent problem to NYC via 311, provide your full address, type of rodents seen (rats/mice), signs (droppings, gnawing), and any contributing factors like garbage or entry points. Photos and your contact info speed up the process.