Waltrop to host citizen forum on rat control and new regulations

The city of Waltrop will host a 'Bauwagengespräch' citizen forum on October 20, 2026, at the Marktplatz to address the issue of rat infestations. Mayor Marcel Mittelbach will be joined by experts, including Antonio Moral from the pest control company Tapo, Martin Voskort from the city's safety and order department, and Henry Stalz from the Waltrop waste management company (V+E).

The meeting follows new regulations regarding rodent control. Since April 26, the sale of rat poison to private individuals has been prohibited. Furthermore, the use of any poison purchased before that date must cease by October 22, after which private individuals may face significant fines for using such substances. The forum aims to educate citizens on effective, legal alternatives for managing rodent populations.