Environmental Vector Control
The Environmental Vector Control program provides education, information and ideas on techniques that can be used by individual property owners to mitigate or eradicate mosquitoes and rodents on their property.
Mosquitos
Mosquitoes may harbor several diseases that contribute to outbreaks of Zika, West Nile, dengue fever, encephalitis and canine heartworm. Effective mosquito control helps to control mosquito populations to prevent or reduce these outbreaks and enhance the enjoyment of outdoor activities by everyone in the community. For more information, visit Mosquito | Austin Public Health | AustinTexas.gov.
-> To report a mosquito issue, visit Austin 3-1-1 | City of Austin | AustinTexas.gov.
Arbovirus Surveillance Map
Mosquitoes are present in Central Texas year-round, but the population is largest and most active from May through November. During this period, Austin Public Health monitors the population and tests for mosquito-borne viruses. Those that carry West Nile Virus (WNV) are of particular concern.
Attention: In 2025, mosquito pools (group of mosquitos collected) which have tested positive for West Nile Virus were found across the city. APH Environmental Health Services Division will increase surveillance activities and post awareness signs/flyers in areas where these mosquitos are found.
A map of Austin-Travis County by zip code. Highlighted zip codes indicate a mosquito pool tested positive for West Nile Virus or a mosquito-borne virus.
Rodents
Rodents, particularly rats, are responsible for a substantial amount of property damage and may carry diseases such as Murine typhus, plague, salmonellosis, trichinosis, leptospirosis, and rat-bite fever. If you notice a rodent activity in your area, please let us know by submitting a report:
-> Report a problem with rodents | City of Austin Services | AustinTexas.gov
Conditions like tall grass, accumulated trash, or debris can create environments where rodents live. If you see a possible code violation contributing to a rodent issue, report it to 3-1-1:
-> Austin 3-1-1 | City of Austin | AustinTexas.gov
Bees and Stinging Insects
City Ordinance Chapter 3-6 outlines the requirements for maintaining and managing bee colonies within Austin city limits. These regulations apply only to managed colonies and do not cover wild bee colonies that establish themselves in natural, protected spaces, such as tree hollows, tree stumps, or other locations not typically used for beekeeping.
-> To report a Bee Ordinance violation, contact 3-1-1 or visit Austin 3-1-1 | City of Austin | AustinTexas.gov.
The City of Austin supports the safe removal and relocation of bees whenever possible, rather than eradication. Due to state regulations, the City does not provide bee removal, relocation, or eradication services, nor do we maintain or endorse a list of service providers.
-> For bee removal services, please visit the Texas Apiary Inspection Service.
Bats
Austin houses the largest urban bat colony in North America. While bats contribute greatly to our ecosystem, it is important to be safe when encountering them. For information about potential rabies exposure see About Rabies | Rabies | CDC.
Contact Information
If you need assistance, we're here to help. Use the contact us form or reach us by phone, email, or in person at the address below. You can also view a map of our location for easy directions.
- Phone: (512) 978-0300 and select option 5.
- Email: ehsd.service@austintexas.gov
- Physical Address: Environmental Health Services, 1520 Rutherford Ln, Bldg. 1 Ste 205, Austin, TX 78754.
Have Feedback?
We welcome your feedback and use it to improve our services. Please share your experience through the online survey below. If you need to address a concern or request a second opinion about an inspection result or complaint, contact us at 512-978-0300 between 7:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.
--> Feedback Survey: Austin Public Health Environmental Health Services
To return to our Environmental Health Services Division page, visit Environmental Health Services | Austin Public Health | AustinTexas.gov.