A pesticide is any substance or device used to prevent, destroy, repel, or control pests such as insects, weeds, fungi, rodents, or other organisms.
Pesticides are carefully regulated and must always be used according to the product label. The pesticide label is the law, meaning the instructions on the label are legal requirements—not suggestions. The label explains how to use the product safely and correctly, including where it can be used, how much to apply, how often to apply it, and what safety precautions to follow.
Always read the label carefully before purchasing and before using any pesticide to help protect yourself, others, and the environment.
Overview
What Is a Pesticide?
A pesticide is any substance or device used to prevent, destroy, repel, or control pests such as insects, weeds, fungi, rodents, or other organisms.
Pesticides are carefully regulated and must always be used according to the product label. The pesticide label is the law, meaning the instructions on the label are legal requirements not suggestions. The label explains how to use the product safely and correctly, including where it can be used, how much to apply, how often to apply it, and what safety precautions to follow.
Always read the label carefully before purchasing and before using any pesticide to help protect yourself, others, and the environment.
Interested in Learning More or Pursuing a Career?
Pesticide applicators play an important role in agriculture, public health, and environmental protection. If you are interested in obtaining a pesticide license or learning about careers in this field, we encourage you to contact us or reach out to your local Extension agent for guidance and resources.
Did You Know?
We also offer pesticide informationin Spanish. Check out our Spanish-language pages as we continue to expand our resources into additional languages to better serve our community.
Pesticide Information Office Blog
Did you know we also have a blog? That’s right we don’t just have a website with helpful resources! Our blog covers common pesticide topics, safety tips, seasonal reminders, and even recipes once in a while. It’s a great place to learn, stay informed, and explore pesticide topics in a more relaxed and engaging way.
EPA.gov Pesticides
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates pesticides in the United States to help protect human health and the environment. This website provides trusted, science-based information on pesticide safety, regulations, labels, and environmental impacts. It’s a reliable source for understanding how pesticides are evaluated and approved for use.
National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC)
The National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) providesunbiased, research-based information about pesticides. NPIC helps answer questions about pesticide products, exposure concerns, health effects, and safe use practices. This is an excellent resource for both the general public and professionals looking for clear, trustworthy information.
Poison Control Center
If you or someone else may have been exposed to a pesticide or any other potentially harmful substance, Poison Control is available 24/7 to help.
Call 1-800-222-1222 You can also visit their website for guidance and information.If this is a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
The Pesticide Educational Resources Collaborative (PERC) develops educational materials to promote safe and responsible pesticide use. Their resources are designed for applicators, educators, and the public, and focus on health, safety, and environmental protection.
You should file a pesticide complaint if you believe a pesticide was used incorrectly, illegally, or caused harm to people, animals, plants, or the environment. Complaints help regulatory agencies investigate potential misuse and protect public health and safety.
If you are unsure whether to file a complaint, we encourage you to contact us or your local Extension agent for guidance.
What Are Pesticides?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) “A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pest; Use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant; Use as a nitrogen stabilizer”. This includes weed and feed, flea medicine, moth balls, and ant or roach bait among many others This is further detailed on this EPA page
Can I Be On a No-Spray List For Mosquitos?
Mosquito Control Programs are regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Depending on your county and the program you fall under, you may or may not be able to be on a no-spray list. Find information about your local program here.
Although not every program offers a “no spray option” those with documented chemical sensitivities can request prior notification before ANY type of pesticide is used in their area. For more information about registration follow the instructions providedhere.
I Am A Beekeeper- How Do I Protect My Bees From Pesticides?
Where Is the PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) On A Pesticide Label?
Pesticide labels follow a standardized format for the most part. If PPE is required for a product it will be listed under “Precautionary Statements”. An example label and additional information on pesticide labeling can be found here.
Will Pesticides Make My Family Or Pet Sick?
We have written several articles to help you understand the potential of pesticide exposure to pets and families.
Do I Need To Be Certified To Apply Pesticides?
In Florida, if you will be applying Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs), or selling pest control services you must become a certified applicator. If you think this applies to you, try following our key to determine which certification is right for you, and check out our “Applicators” section of the website.
What If I Think I Have Been Exposed To Pesticides?
If you think you are experiencing pesticide poisoning or have been exposed call your poison control center or seek medical attention. Try to have as much information as possible to give to the medical provider such as what the chemical was, how you were exposed, how much of the product you came in contact with, and if possible share the product label.
How Do I Know How To Use A Pesticide?
All pesticides will be registered with the EPA and ALL will have directions on them about safety and use. This is called a pesticide label and contains all the information needed for use of these products. We have a blog series dedicated to understanding all the parts of a pesticide label.
