For General Public
A pesticide is any substance or device used to prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate any pest. All pesticides must be used according to ALL label instructions. Always read the label before you buy and before you use any pesticide.
FAQs
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What are Pesticides?
According to the 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.
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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 provided here.
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I am a Beekeeper- How do I Protect my Bees from Pesticides?
FDACS has a webpage covering this topic extensively here. We also have several relevant blogs: pesticides and pollinators, What’s the buzz on bees, and bee boxes.
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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.
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I Think Someone is Misusing Pesticide- What Can I Do?
If you believe someone is misusing pesticides, you can file a complaint with FDACS. There is a “Pest Control Complaint Form” and a “Report and Unlicensed/illegal Pest Control Operator” form. They can be found here. We also have a blog article on pesticide misuse.
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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.
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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.
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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.