Pest Control
What is it?
Pest control in public spaces is not an official responsibility of the municipality. The municipality will only take action if public health is at risk. For example, if the nuisance caused by pests is so severe that an entire neighborhood or district is at risk of disease.
What should I do?
Are you having trouble with pests?
Rat control is not the municipality’s responsibility. You should hire a specialized company for this. However, we do have some tips for you on how to keep rats away.
You can report a pest problem through our reporting system at or via the BuitenBeter .
You can download the BuitenBeter app from the App Store or Google Play Store. Select 'West Maas en Waal' as your municipality and you can submit reports.
Additional information
Brown rats
It’s really annoying to have these animals in your yard. They’re attracted to food, so make sure there’s no food left out in your yard. That way, they’ll stay away on their own.
Information and tips on preventing rats
Oak processionary caterpillar
The oak processionary caterpillar is becoming increasingly common in the Netherlands. This insect can cause severe itching. The municipality is responsible for controlling the caterpillars. Before the caterpillars can damage the tree, the nest will be vacuumed out. The gypsy moth caterpillar can also cause problems. If you experience itching, rinse the area thoroughly with water and, if necessary, contact your doctor or the GGD at .
Lice
If there are aphids on the trees in the municipality, this can be quite annoying. However, they are not harmful, and the sticky substance is easy to remove. For this reason, aphids are usually not treated.
Moles
These animals can be a nuisance in your garden. Are you experiencing a lot of trouble with them? If so, you can hire a pest control company to deal with the problem.
The municipality does not control moles in public areas.