Vector Control protects health and enhances livability through control of the rat and mosquito populations, and serves as a resource for addressing public health vector problems. Programs include Rodent Control, Mosquito Control and Code Enforcement, which enforces some specific county and city municipal codes.
Our surveillance, education, prevention and control activities are done in accordance with and authority granted from Oregon Revised Statute 452.
What's a Vector?
Vector is another word for animals or organisms that can spread disease to humans. In Multnomah County, mosquitoes and rats are the most common vectors.
Our Work
- Monitor the presence of mosquitoes and mosquito-borne disease
- Inspect potential mosquito breeding habitats
- Maintain safe and comfortable mosquito population levels
- Provide mosquitofish to control mosquito larvae in ornamental ponds and pools
- Conduct rat inspections to help residents control rats in and around their homes
- Provide technical assistance to landowners and community groups about prevention
Code Enforcement
The Code Enforcement program ensures community livability through the education and enforcement of Multnomah County and City of Portland regulations including:
- City of Portland Title 13 Bees and Livestock
- Multnomah County Code Chapter 15: Sheriff (1.39 MB)
- Multnomah County Code Chapter 21: Health (774.99 KB)
- Metro Regional Government Code Chapter 5.09 Illegal Dumping
Community Education
Understanding pests is the first step to preventing and controlling them. We are happy to come to your school, organization or civic club to offer education on vectors like mosquitoes and rats. We often discuss:
- Our work
- Where vectors like mosquitoes or rats come from
- The diseases that vectors carry
- How to prevent vectors in your home and community
Please contact us with a description of the information your group needs.
Contact Us
Multnomah County Vector Control
5235 N Columbia Blvd
Portland, Oregon
503-988-3464
