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Environmental Health

Show All Answers

1. What can I do about tall grasses and weeds in my neighborhood?

The Code of Ordinances of the City of Bismarck requires property owners to mow tall grasses and weeds on their property by June 1, July 15 and, if necessary, September 1 of each year or if grass and/or weeds exceed 8” in height. Our office must provide the property owner a seven day notification period to control tall grass and weeds on their property. To report a property, please contact: Mel Fischer, Administrator. Please remember to provide an address of the property.

2. Does the City control dandelions?

The Code of Ordinances of the City of Bismarck governing weed control does not address the control of dandelions. The ordinance only provides for control of weeds that are listed on the "State Noxious Weed List". Read on

3. How can I report Leafy Spurge infestations?

The City provides a program to control leafy spurge and other registered noxious weeds. To report a leafy spurge infestation, please contact: Mel Fischer, Administrator.

4. How can I reduce mosquito habitat on my property?

Here are some steps you can take to reduce the number of mosquitoes in your neighborhood and help Bismarck protect against West Nile disease: Read on

5. How can I remove a swarm of bees or wasps from my shrubs or outside of my home?

The swarm of insects must be accessible for successful control. A can of wasp and hornet spray can be purchased from your local retail outlet to abate or eradicate the insects. Follow the directions for use indicated on the label.

6. What should I do when a swarm of bees occupy a wall in my home or in my bushes or shrubs?

A pest control operator may be called to abate the swarm of bees. They are listed in the telephone book yellow pages under “Pest Control Services”. There will likely be a charge for this service.

7. Do I need a permit to apply pesticides within the City of Bismarck?

Any person who applies pesticides for hire in the City of Bismarck must be a certified applicator or for general use pesticides, working under the direct supervision of a certified applicator. In addition, a certified applicator offering pesticide application services in the City of Bismarck must have a permit issued by the City Health Officer. If you have any questions, please contact: Mel Fischer, Administrator. Read on

8. Can I have more than 3 dogs or cats in my home?

Yes, the Code of Ordinance 3-03-02.10 allows homeowners to have more than three dogs or cats, six months of age or older. The city ordinance does not regulate pets under six months of age. The homeowner must submit a letter of application for a "Special Pet License" to our department. The letter must indicate the number of animals, their names, ages and a copy of their immunization records. Please include your telephone number so we can contact you for an inspection. An inspection is necessary to determine if the applicant meets the sanitary requirements of the ordinance. A fee of $20 must be enclosed with the letter of application. If payment is by check, please make it payable to the City of Bismarck. Letter of application and fee can be mailed to: Environmental Health Division, Fire Department, 1020 E Central Ave, Bismarck ND 58501-1936. Read on

9. What can I do about my neighbor's junk vehicle?

The zoning ordinance requires that vehicles stored on private property have a current license and are in operating condition. If you have a question or would like to report an abandoned vehicle, please contact: Mel Fischer, Administrator. Please remember to include an address of the property. Read on

10. My neighbor has junk in his yard. What can I do?

The zoning ordinance of the City of Bismarck does not permit the storage of junk, appliances, car parts, plumbing materials, etc. outdoors on private property. If you have a question or would like to report a property, please contact: Mel Fischer, Administrator. Please remember to include an address. Read on

11. Do my neighbors have to clean the dog litter in their yard?

Yes, the Code of Ordinance of the City of Bismarck requires owners of animals to take care of their pets and maintain their property in a clean condition. If you have a question or would like to report a property, please contact: Mel Fischer, Administrator. Please remember to include an address in your message. Read on

12. Can I have a compost pile in my yard?

Yes, homeowners are permitted to have a compost pile comprised of grass and leaves only, provided it does not create an odor or nuisance for your neighbor. Read on

13. How can I report a dead bird?

Our department is no longer collecting dead birds for West Nile Virus surveillance since a bird positive for the West Nile Virus has been reported in Burleigh County. If you have any questions, please contact:Mel Fischer, Administrator

14. What are the regulations governing the handling and disposal of materials containing asbestos?

The North Dakota Department of Health administers guidelines and regulations involving the handling and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. In many instances, a "Notification of Demolition or Renovation" form must be completed. Information and forms are available from their website at North Dakota Department of Health. Read on

15. Where can I find information regarding the installation of individual sewage systems?

Information regarding the installation of individual sewage treatment systems is available from the Building Inspections Division, Community Development Department at (701) 355-1465. Read on

16. Do I need a food permit when offering food to the public?

Yes, a food permit is required when offering food to the public. Information and an application for a food permit can be accessed by using this link Food Service Information. Read on