The Health Department's Pest Management Services Division conducts on-site monitoring and control of insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, rats, mice, and other animals that are capable of transmitting the spread of disease.
File a pest management complaint
Types of Complaints and What Services We Offer
Education Program
We meet with school age students to review pest management issues (The Bug Club) and participate in events.
Rodent Control
Premises are inspected, looking for rat signs near foundations, fence rows, chicken and/or dog pens, bird feeders, garbage containers, etc. If rat signs are located, owners/occupants will sign a consent form giving permission to place an approved rodenticide on property. If owners/occupants refuse services, an "Abate Nuisance" notice is issued.
Cockroach Control - Residential
We inspect, identify, and provide information regarding methods for control.
Mouse Control
We inspect, identify, and provide information regarding methods for control.
Fly Control
We inspect area to locate source of breeding and issue notice to clean up.
Flea Control
We issue owner notice to employ measures for control of fleas.
Tick Control
We inspect, identify, and provide information regarding methods for the control of ticks.
Bird Control
We inspect and provide information regarding methods for control of birds.
Snake Control
We inspect, identify, and provide information regarding methods for control of snakes.
Bat Control
We inspect, identify, and provide information regarding methods for control of bats.
Other Pests
We inspect, identify, and provide information regarding methods for the control of other pests or refer to other agencies.
Tips to Help Minimize Mosquito Breeding and Biting
- Window and door screens should be free of holes to block mosquitoes from entering living areas.
- Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Reduce or eliminate such breeding grounds by removing water from discarded tires, buckets, toys, birdbaths, rain gutters and down spouts, and other areas where standing water is present.
- Use mosquito repellent when spending time outdoors.
- Proper use of larvicides will help control mosquitoes and kill their larva.
- Carefully read and follow label directions for any larvicide or insecticide before use.
Fight the Bite West Nile Virus brochure
Tick-Borne Disease Threats in Davidson County
Nashville and Middle Tennessee's largest tick-borne disease threat is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. This disease can be transmitted through the American dog tick. Symptoms of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever include high fever, rash (beginning on the extremities), cough, severe headache, and muscle aches. Anyone showing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Tick Removal
Ticks should be removed as soon as they are discovered on both people and animals. To remove a tick, grab it as close to the skin as possible, preferably with tweezers. Pull the tick out without twisting or jerking. Wash the bite location with soap and water.