Do you apply Pesticides as part of your maintenance gardening business?
Pesticides are defined as any material used to control pests such as weeds, insects, fungi and rodents. Products such as Round Up and Gopher Getter are considered to be pesticides. If you do not apply any pesticides as part of your service, you are not required to be licensed with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation.
State law requires all businesses that apply pesticides, even those making incidental applications during their primary landscaping gardening tasks, be licensed by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Licensing requirements include having a properly qualified and trained applicator familiar with safe pesticide application practices and current pesticide laws. (read more in Overview - English or Spanish)
The steps are outlined in the following brochures:
- San Mateo County Maintenance Gardener Brochure (English or Spanish)
- UC Davis has a free on-line course to help you study for the exam: Maintenance Gardener Online Course: English and Spanish
- Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) Maintenance Gardener Program: examination information, business regulations, educational resources and current licenses
- Current DPR Pest Control Business Licenses
- Maintenance Gardener License Application: Qualified Applicator Certificate with the Department of Pesticide Regulation (for the individual)
- Maintenance Gardener Business License with the Department of Pesticide Regulation (for the business)
- Maintenance Gardener Registration for pesticide application in the county
- Department of Pesticide Regulation Pest Management and Licensing Branch Examination Schedule