Environmental Vector Control
The Environmental Vector Control program provides education, guidance, and support to help residents reduce disease‑carrying mosquitoes, rodents, and other pests on their property.
This page explains how we monitor mosquito‑borne diseases, how to report issues, and where to find safe removal resources and relevant regulations.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes can carry several diseases, including Zika, West Nile virus, dengue fever, encephalitis, and canine heartworm. Reducing mosquito breeding sites and staying informed about local activity are key steps in protecting your home and community.
If you see mosquito activity or conditions that may contribute to mosquito breeding, you can submit a report through Austin 3‑1‑1. For general information on mosquito prevention, visit: Mosquito | Austin Public Health | AustinTexas.gov.
→ Report a mosquito issue through Austin 3-1-1 | City of Austin | AustinTexas.gov.
Arbovirus Surveillance & West Nile Virus Testing
Mosquitoes are present year‑round in Central Texas, with peak activity from May through November. During this season, Austin Public Health traps, identifies, and tests mosquito pools (groups of mosquitoes) for mosquito‑borne viruses, including West Nile Virus (WNV).
Current Advisory
In 2026, mosquito pools have tested positive for West Nile Virus in 78733. APH will increase surveillance in affected areas and place awareness signage to alert residents. View the map below displaying positive mosquito pools across Austin‑Travis County. This map is updated regularly during mosquito season.
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, can damage property and carry diseases such as murine typhus, plague, salmonellosis, leptospirosis, trichinosis, and rat‑bite fever.
If you notice rodent activity, please report it using the link below:
→ Report a problem with rodents | City of Austin Services | AustinTexas.gov
Environmental conditions such as tall grass, overgrown vegetation, accumulated trash, or standing water can contribute to rodent infestations. If these conditions appear to violate city or county codes, report them to Austin 3-1-1 | City of Austin | AustinTexas.gov.
Bees & Other Stinging Insects
City Ordinance Chapter 3-6 outlines requirements for maintaining and managing managed bee colonies within Austin city limits. These rules do not apply to wild bees living in natural cavities such as tree hollows or stumps.
To report a possible bee ordinance violation, contact Austin 3‑1‑1 or visit Austin 3-1-1 | City of Austin | AustinTexas.gov.
The City encourages relocation rather than eradication. Due to state regulations, APH cannot remove, relocate, or exterminate bees and does not maintain a list of providers.
For removal services, visit the Texas Apiary Inspection Service.
Bats
Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Bats play a vital ecological role, but it’s important to practice caution.
For information about safe bat encounters and potential rabies exposure, visit: About Rabies | Rabies | CDC.
Contact Information
Environmental Health Services Division
Phone: 512‑978‑0300
Email: ehsd.service@austintexas.gov
Address: 1520 Rutherford Ln, Bldg. 1 Ste 205, Austin, TX 78754
Mailing: PO Box 142529, Austin, TX 78714Feedback
Help us improve by completing the Environmental Health Services feedback survey: 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.