City of Reno advises residents on rat prevention as pest control calls spike
by Katherine Nowicki, Kim Burrows
November 17, 2025
The City of Reno has received an increased number of constituent reports regarding rat activity in several neighborhoods.A dozen Reno-area pest control compani
mynews4.com
Officials say the city of Reno has received an increased number of constituent reports regarding rat activity in several neighborhoods.
City officials say that under NRS 555.500, the Nevada Legislature has determined that control of rodents is primarily the responsibility of each individual landowner or occupier.
There is no single agency with clear authority for general rat presence in developed areas unless an infestation poses a documented public health, safety, or agricultural hazard. Officials say that while the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) maintains authority over rodent-related issues, its ability to intervene is limited.
A dozen Reno-area pest control companies told News 4/Fox 11 that their rat-related calls have increased by about 50% this year.
Experts say the culprits are roof rats, larger than mice and known for their ability to climb and nest in attics, trees, and walls.
The rise in Reno’s rat population started about five years ago — and pest experts say it’s tied to a combination of things relating to where the rats get their food.
“What’s really contributing to the roof rat population is the mild winters we’ve had and excessive fruit production,” said Lee Lawrence, the owner of ZeeBest Pest Control & Inspection. “A lot of people don’t pick up fallen fruit, and the rats end up with a year-round food source.”…