Amended Ordinance Adds Strong Rules and Regulations Regarding the Reporting and Treatment of Bed Bugs

For more information, call 773-262-1050

June 5, 2013

Alderman Debra Silverstein (50th Ward), Alderman Osterman (48th Ward), Alderman Suarez (31st Ward), Alderman Cardenas (12th Ward) and Alderman Lane (18th Ward) passed amendatory legislation declaring bed bugs to be a public nuisance.

The increase in bed bug infestation is a major concern throughout the city, and this legislation is an important step in improving the quality of life in our communities by addressing this issue and halting its spread.

The amended ordinance imposes fines on landlords who fail to exterminate infested units according to the regulations dictated by the ordinance. It also makes tenants responsible for notifying landlords immediately and cooperating with the bed bug treatment and eradication process. Bed bugs are resistant to many forms of treatment techniques, making cooperation vital for the successful eradication of the infestation.

“One of the most important aspects of this legislation is that it educates the public to the problem of bed bugs. This ordinance will allow best practices to be determined by the Department of Public Health and will require infestations to be handled by a qualified exterminator in a manner that shows demonstrated success,” Alderman Silverstein said.

The ordinance, proposed by Alderman Silverstein, was in response to complaints from residents of the 50th Ward who have experienced bed bugs in their homes and whose lives were upended due to the infestation.

“All Chicago residents have a right to feel comfortable and safe within their own homes,” Alderman Silverstein said.  “This legislation will ensure that property owners and tenants are responsible for maintaining their property and will stop the spread of bed bug throughout a building and to neighbors.”

The amended ordinance passed the City Council on June 5, 2013.

###