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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Rodents & Animals / DOH-ROD-002
Rodents — Improper Waste Storage Attracting Rats
Rule
Rodents & Animals · NYC DOHMH / DSNY · 24 RCNY Health Code §151.03; 16 RCNY §1-08
Rodents — Improper Waste Storage Attracting Rats is enforced by NYC DOHMH / DSNY under 24 RCNY Health Code §151.03; 16 RCNY §1-08. Severity default: High.
The regulation
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.
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.
Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?
We prepare the text. You file it on 311. Nothing goes to 311 unless you send it.