§ 4525.10. Rat-proofing.  


Latest version.
  • Every dwelling, accessory structure, and premises thereof shall be maintained in a rat-free and rat-proof condition as follows:

    (a)

    All ventilation, lighting, access or other openings of ½ inch or more which are accessible to rats shall be rat-proofed by grilles, sheet metal, hardware cloth, tight fitting metal covers and frames or other method approved by the code enforcement officer.

    (b)

    Any enclosure or crawl space under a structure which creates a potential rat harborage shall be rat-proofed at all places where a rat could create an opening to the building.

    (c)

    The lower edge of all exterior doors shall not be more than three-eighths ( 3/8 ) inch above the threshold.

    (d)

    Skylights accessible to rats shall be tight fitting, constructed of approved rat-proof materials, and screened with hardware cloth or expanded metal if openable.

    In addition to the above requirements, the following provisions apply to any dwelling, accessory structure and premises where it is determined that rat infestation exists:

    (a)

    The lower eight (8) inches of each wooden exterior door shall be covered by sheet metal in a safe and rat-proofed manner.

    (b)

    Each exterior door shall have an automatic door closing device or a screen door with such a device.

    (c)

    Any space between two buildings which is too small to permit inspection of the exterior walls of each building shall be sealed without obstructing drainage so as to prevent rat entrance.

    (d)

    Following extermination by an approved means, all rat holes or burrows shall be eliminated or filled with earth or other suitable material.

    (e)

    Any stacking of materials on the exterior of the premises shall be elevated twelve inches from the ground and shall not be placed against the walls of the structure.

(Ord. 1057-94.)