Bucharest rat infestation sparks new citywide pest‑control regulations

Residents of Bucharest have reported a surge in rat activity across multiple districts, filing 216 complaints this year. Rats have been seen moving through building walls, entering apartments and even coming up through toilet pipes, prompting widespread public concern.

The municipal deratization effort, led by the contractor Eco Igienizare under the City Hall, is being supplemented by a proposed ordinance that would require pest‑control firms to submit quarterly reports on all interventions, locations, and substances used. Companies failing to comply could face suspensions and fines up to 10,000 lei. Experts attribute the escalation to uncontrolled waste, residents feeding the rodents, and structural gaps in ventilation shafts, recommending sealing of openings and stricter waste management.

The city council is set to vote on the new reporting rules in the coming days, aiming to improve transparency and effectiveness of rat‑control measures.