Chicago and New York City rat control policies face criticism

A Chicago watchdog report found the city’s rat‑control program relies heavily on 311 complaints, dispatching crews only after residents report sightings instead of targeting the most severe infestations. The audit says the Bureau of Rat Control does not follow Integrated Pest Management guidelines and focuses mainly on poisoning, creating a cycle of “rat harvesting.” Inspector General David Glockner called for a unified, preventive strategy across city departments.

In New York City, former Mayor Eric Adams is credited with a sharp decline in rat reports after aggressive animal‑control measures and the rollout of sealed trash containers. 311 calls for rats fell 22% in the first seven months of 2026, the first time below 10,000 since 2020, and Manhattan Community Board 9 noted a 35% drop in sightings following the new bins. The city aims to have 100% of trash in sealed containers by 2031.