The Health Department in New York City has increased the number of summonses issued to property owners who fail to clean up unsanitary pigeon conditions by 29% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Last year, 295 summonses were issued, as opposed to 228 in 2022, with an additional 76 summonses issued in the first two months of this year. Property owners are given a Commissioner’s Order to Abate, allowing at least 5 days to clean up the mess before facing a summons with a $1,000 fine.
Councilwoman Joann Ariola expressed concern over property owners ignoring pigeon poop, stating that it is unhealthy and unsightly, impacting the quality of life for New Yorkers. Exposure to pigeon droppings can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues, according to the Health Department. However, David Rose, chairman of the Fordham Road Business Improvement District, criticized the $1,000 summons he received, calling it unfair and unnecessary, especially when more serious issues like rat infestations only carry $300 fines.
Rose plans to fight the ticket before an administrative law judge and accused the city of misplaced priorities, citing street vendors breaking laws in plain sight with fewer consequences. He expressed frustration at the focus on pigeon droppings when there are more significant quality-of-life issues in business corridors. Rose criticized a proposal that would allow street vendors to occupy sidewalk space, further crowding already congested areas.
In 2022, there were 1060 complaints about pigeon poop received by the city’s 311 hotline, a 10% increase from the previous year. In response to these complaints, the Health Department issued 604 warnings to property owners affected by bird droppings, a 39% increase from the previous year. Councilwoman Robert Holden believes that while property owners play a crucial role in maintaining vibrant neighborhoods, a $1,000 fine, even for a first offense, is too harsh. The issue of pigeon poop and the resulting summonses remain a contentious topic in New York City.
