New Rat Control Initiative Using Gas Fumigation in NYC

The city has launched an $877,000 program aimed at eradicating rats from storm drain and tree-bed areas across New York City. The plan involves a specialized team of a dozen exterminators and park workers who will inspect and deploy carbon monoxide into rat burrows, killing the rodents effectively and humanely, according to officials.

Mayor Eric Adams highlighted that this effort is part of broader measures to improve public spaces by reducing waste and rodent populations. The gas, which boasts a 95% kill rate over seven days and takes about three minutes per use, is safe for humans and pets when applied correctly. Equipment used will be positioned at least 10 feet away from buildings to limit noise and risk.

Worker fumigating a NYC tree bed — Officials claim that the carbon monoxide method is both quick and safe, with noise levels kept at a minimum distance from structures.

This effort follows other city initiatives, including the containerization of 70% of street trash and a rat birth control program, aiming to eliminate the rat breeding grounds in street tree beds—areas that have long been exploited by rodents. Resident and rat mitigation advocate Mark Abbott expressed relief, stating, “This is a positive step in reclaiming our streets.”

City officials said the team will respond promptly to referrals from health services and take action on the 2,300 reports of rat activity last year. Reports indicate higher activity in hotspots like Bedford-Stuyvesant, Harlem, Bronx Grand Concourse, and East Village/Chinatown.

Recent data show a decline in rat sightings over the past six months, with a 22% decrease last month, attributed partly to improved waste management rules. NYC Parks Commissioner Rodriguez-Rosa emphasized that combining science-based, non-toxic methods with dedicated staff will help protect neighborhoods and improve residents’ quality of life.