Frequently Asked Questions about the Pesticide Law
Q: Where can I find a list of organic pesticides allowed for use?
A: The County cannot endorse products but annually checks for products registered by the State Chemist for use in Maryland. This may not be a comprehensive list: Lawn Care Pesticides Compatible with Organic Use
Q: If it is sold in a store in Montgomery County, does that mean it is not prohibited?
A: The law does not ban the sale of any products in stores, and some products may be used in other circumstances. For example, a product that is not allowed for control of weeds in a lawn in Montgomery County may still be used in a garden bed or sidewalk cracks. We still encourage you to use organic chemicals or other methods of pest control.
Q: How can I easily tell if a pesticide is not allowed on a lawn, playground, or other specified areas?
A: If the product being used has an EPA registration number, it is generally not allowed. If it has an OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) logo, and/or an EPA National Organic Production (NOP) logo and/or a statement on the labels that it is exempt from EPA registration under 25(b) it is allowed.
Q: Are there any pesticides that the County has cleared for use that are not obviously allowed per the label guidance mentioned in these webpages?
A: The only products that may not have organic labeling but are allowed under the law are weed control products have the active ingredient of Iron HEDTA. They are listed in the approved product list under the Resources area on this page.
Q: Can I apply a registered pesticide as a pre-emergent to prevent the germination of crabgrass in a lawn?
A: Currently, we only know of corn gluten products allowed under the law that might be effective, given the right conditions and timing. Otherwise, weed-and-free products and most pesticides are not allowed.
Q: A company just sprayed over the lawn next to me to control mosquitoes. Is this allowed?
A: Yes. So long as the applicator was properly licensed or the pesticide was approved for use by the private property owner, and all directions were followed per the label on the product. The law allows for registered pesticides to be used to control biting or stinging insects, as well as disease vectors. If you believe the product was not used per the label, or was used by an unlicensed company, or drifted onto your property, inquire immediately with the Maryland Department of Agriculture by calling 410-841-5710.
Q: I saw someone apply a pesticide to a lawn. Should I report them?
A: Do you know enough to determine if this may have been an illegal application? There are some pesticide applications that are legal. Please gather as much information before contacting DEP. DEP is committed to educating property owners and businesses, and may levy warnings and fines for violations.
Q: Does this law apply to my children’s school?
A: If the school is part of the MCPS system, the State regulates pesticide usage. MCPS schools have an IPM plan that was implemented in 2000 that directs schools to use pesticides only after all other prevention and treatment options have been exhausted. Notifications are also required.
If the school is a private school leasing on MCPS property, typically their IPM plan applies.
If the school is private and hosts children under the age of 6, the County law is in effect.
Q: Can registered pesticide be used on a sports field at a private school?
A: Yes.
Q: A new neighbor bought the home next to me. How can they learn about the law?
A: If you message us at [email protected] with the address we would be more than happy to mail them information.
Q: Can I apply a registered pesticide to control weeds in the cracks of a sidewalk?
A: Yes, if the product is labeled for this use. We recommend you instead try either killing the weeds by pulling or digging them out, burning them with a propane weed burner, or using an organic product.
Q: Can I apply a pesticide to a lawn if I am using to control a pest that attacks a tree or shrub?
A: Yes.
Q: When did the County restrict the use of certain pesticides on lawns?
A: The County’s Pesticide Law was amended in 2015 to include provisions including the restrictions of pesticide usage on lawns, playgrounds, mulched recreation areas, and childcare facilities. Legal challenges to the law upheld implementation until May of 2019.
Q: Does the apply to common areas of HOAs, apartments, and businesses?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you have a list of allowed products?
A: Yes, we cannot guarantee it is comprehensive, it is simply a list of products we have been able to confirm is on the State Chemist’s list of registered products.