Rodents — Improper Waste Storage Attracting Rats

Rodents & Animals · NYC DOHMH / DSNY · NYC Health Code §151.03; 16 RCNY §1-08

Rodents — Improper Waste Storage Attracting Rats is enforced by NYC DOHMH / DSNY under NYC Health Code §151.03; 16 RCNY §1-08. Severity default: High.

The rule

Loose garbage, overflowing dumpsters without lids, and grease residue attract rodents. Restaurants and businesses with visible rat activity linked to waste handling are DOHMH enforcement targets.

What to photograph

dumpster with lid open and rats visible inside or nearby
grease stains and scattered food waste behind restaurant
torn bags with rat gnaw marks at commercial curb

How to file a complaint

Photograph rodent activity, waste attractants, or carcass with address.
For active infestations, note time of day — daytime rat sightings indicate heavy population.
File at 311 under Rodent or Dirty Conditions.

Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DOHMH / DSNY.

Penalties & fines

DOHMH and DSNY can fine property owners and businesses $200–$2,000+ for rodent and waste violations.

What happens after you file

DOHMH Pest Control may bait and inspect. DSNY handles carcass removal. Restaurants enter graded inspection cycle.

This rule is in our public reference corpus for SEO and training. In-app classification is not enabled yet — file via 311 using the steps above.

Related guides

FAQ

Can I file anonymously?

311 requires contact information for follow-up. Your identity is not shared with the violator. SidewalkSnitch requires phone verification for filings but does not auto-submit to 311.

Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?

This rule category is reference-only in SidewalkSnitch today. File directly at 311.nyc.gov or call 311.

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