Rodent Control & Rebates

• Call 905-835-2900 or email bylawenforcement@portcolborne.ca to schedule a property inspection. 
• Before your inspection, ensure your yard is free of conditions that may attract or provide shelter for rodents, including garbage or debris, tall grass and weeds, and accessible food or water sources.
• A Municipal Law Enforcement Officer will visit your property to inspect the exterior for signs of rodent activity and identify any conditions that may be contributing to the issue.
• The Officer will ensure you have:
  • Information and tips to help prevent and control rodents.
  • A Rebate Application Form
  • A Contractor Information Form [PDF/24KB]
• If any property maintenance concerns are identified during the inspection, the Officer will discuss them with you and explain what needs to be addressed before proceeding with the rebate program.

• Hire licensed pest control company based in Ontario to complete the rodent control services on the exterior of your property. 
• Before the invoice is prepared, ask your contractor to ensure it includes:
  • The service address.
  • The date the work was completed.
  • A description of the rodent control services completed on the exterior of the property.

Please note: Pest control services completed inside the home are not eligible for the rebate.

• Once the work is complete:
  • Provide your contractor with the Contractor Information Form [PDF/24KB] to complete and return to you.
  • Review, complete and sign the Residential Rodent Control Rebate Application Form.
  • Keep a copy of your invoice for your records. The original invoice must be submitted with your rebate application.
  • Keep the completed original Contractor Form to submit with your rebate application.

• Submit your completed forms, including:
  • Your Rebate Application Form 
  • Your Contractor Information Form [PDF/24KB]
  • Your original invoice 

• Upon submission, City staff will review your application. 
• Please allow for a minimum of 30 days for processing.
• If your application is approved, a rebate cheque will be mailed to the property owner at the service address provided on the application. 
• If your application is denied, City staff will follow up to provide further details.

• Burrow holes and droppings (likely near garbage).
• Holes or gnaw marks. 

• Secure garbage & compost (both indoor & outdoor) in plastic or metal receptacles with tight fitting lids.
• Never place fatty or oily food waste, eggs, or milk products in the composter.
• Remove pet food after feeding, clean waste from pet enclosures/yard.
• Eliminate water sources such leaky faucets, bird baths and all standing water.
• Remove bird feeders during a rodent infestation.
• Keep your yard free from all refuse.

• Cut all tall grass and weeds back from the home's foundation and throughout the property.
• Remove clutter from around the home, garage & shed.
• Lift wood piles approximately 30 cm (12 inches) off the ground and away from the home.

• Repair cracks in the home's foundation.
• Eliminate entry points (some rodents can squeeze through cracks as small as a dime).
• Use metal weather stripping under exterior doors.
• Cover drain pipes, dryer, fresh air, and attic vents with fine metal screening.