Prevent Mosquito Breeding: Clear Gutters, Clutter & Standing Water

Published on April 07, 2025

Office of Communication

Planning to enjoy some time outdoors? Take a moment to look around your property this spring and summer for standing water, which could turn into potential mosquito breeding sites.

Mosquitoes may develop in any water stagnant for more than three or four days. In an effort to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus, residents are encouraged to:

• Empty excess water from flower pots
• Keep rain gutters clean and free of obstruction
• Tightly cover rain barrels to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs
• Remove old tires, tin cans, buckets, glass jars, toys or other water-catching items
• Change the water in outdoor pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly or with more frequency
• Turn over wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use
• Drill holes in tire swings so the water drains out
• Add landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property

Download the City's free Ask Arlington app today to report standing water or mosquito infestations on private property.