Memphis Mosquito Abatement Schedules - City Ordinance

Public Health and Welfare Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

Overview

In Memphis, Tennessee, mosquito abatement is coordinated to protect public health through scheduled treatments, public notices, and nuisance enforcement. This bulletin explains how schedules and notifications are published, which departments enforce abatement rules, how residents receive advance notice of spraying, and how to report standing water or missed notifications. It summarizes official sources, complaint channels, and practical steps for homeowners and property managers to reduce mosquito breeding near their properties.

Notification & Schedules

The City and Shelby County publish planned mosquito control schedules and public notification procedures so residents can prepare for ground or aerial applications. Schedules and real-time notices are maintained by the local health agency and may include treatment windows, target neighborhoods, and recommended precautions for sensitive populations.[2]

Sign up for local alerts and 311 notifications to receive schedule updates.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement responsibility for nuisance and public-health threats related to mosquito breeding is carried out by city code enforcement and the Shelby County Health Department, under relevant municipal ordinances and public health regulations.[1]

  • Enforcer: City code enforcement and Shelby County Health Department with inspection authority and complaint intake.
  • Fines: Specific monetary fines for mosquito-related nuisances are not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: Procedures for first, repeat, or continuing offences are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: Orders to abate, property cleanup notices, civil actions, and possible court enforcement are described as available remedies.

Typical complaint and enforcement steps include inspection, written notice to the property owner, an order to remediate breeding sources (for example, remove standing water), and follow-up inspections. Appeals and review are handled through the administrative appeal routes listed in the municipal code; time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

No dedicated municipal permit or form specifically titled for mosquito abatement scheduling or notification is published on the cited pages; reporting is typically done via health department complaint forms or the city 311 portal, depending on the issue.[2]

How notifications are delivered

  • Advance notices: Posted online and via local alert systems when available.
  • Phone alerts and email lists: Residents can sign up for local alerts where offered.
  • Public postings: Neighborhood or city pages list planned treatment areas and dates.
If you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have respiratory concerns, follow local health guidance during spraying events.

Action Steps for Residents

  • Sign up for Memphis or Shelby County alert systems and 311 notifications before peak mosquito season.
  • Eliminate standing water on your property: check gutters, buckets, plant saucers, and tire swings.
  • Report mosquito breeding sites or missed notifications through the health department complaint form or city 311.
  • If you receive an abatement order, follow instructions promptly and document remediation for appeals.

FAQ

What agency runs mosquito control in Memphis?
The Shelby County Health Department coordinates mosquito control programs and partners with city code enforcement and public works for abatement actions.[2]
How will I be notified before spraying?
Notices are posted online, sent via alert subscriptions, and published through local outreach channels when available.
Can I appeal an abatement order?
Yes. Appeal routes are provided by municipal code; deadlines and exact procedures are described in the ordinance and on the enforcement page, or are not specified on the cited page.
Are there fees to report or request inspection?
Reporting mosquito breeding is typically free; fees for permits or mitigation are not specified on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Identify breeding: inspect property for standing water and potential larval habitats.
  2. Document: take photos, note addresses and dates of observation.
  3. Report: submit the information to Shelby County Health Department or call city 311 for code enforcement.
  4. Follow up: track inspection outcomes and comply with any abatement orders; request appeal information if you disagree.

Key Takeaways

  • Subscribe to local alerts to receive abatement schedules and notices.
  • Remove standing water promptly to reduce need for treatment.
  • Report breeding sites to the health department or 311 for inspection.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] City of Memphis Code of Ordinances - Municipal code
  2. [2] Shelby County Health Department - Mosquito Control