Understanding the Licensing Requirements for Roundup Application in Florida

In the state of Florida, applying restricted-use pesticides, including Roundup, requires a valid license. This article aims to provide comprehensive information regarding the licensing requirements and procedures for individuals seeking to use Roundup in Florida. By citing reliable sources, this article offers an academic perspective on the topic.

Key Facts

  1. Restricted Use Pesticide License: Anyone using or supervising the use of restricted use pesticides, including Roundup, on agricultural or related sites in Florida needs a restricted use pesticide license.
  2. Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance License: The State of Florida requires a license to apply any pesticide, including herbicides like Roundup, as part of a landscape business. The Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance license is commonly referred to as the “Roundup license” because it allows for applications of products with the signal word “caution” in beds and shrubs around buildings.
  3. License Requirements: To obtain the Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance license, individuals must attend a six-hour class, complete an application with a picture and proof of insurance, and pass an exam. The license must be renewed annually, and four Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are required for renewal.
  4. Exam Voucher: The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services now requires an exam voucher to take the exam for the license. The voucher can be obtained by applying for the license and following the process outlined by the department.
  5. Training Programs: Training programs for the Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance license are conducted in many counties around the state, depending on demand. Hillsborough and Polk Counties offer the program on a quarterly basis.

Licensing Categories and Applicability

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regulates the use of restricted-use pesticides, including Roundup. Depending on the intended use and location, individuals may require either a Restricted Use Pesticide License or a Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance (LCLM) License.

Restricted Use Pesticide License

Individuals intending to use or supervise the application of restricted-use pesticides, including Roundup, on agricultural or related sites must obtain a Restricted Use Pesticide License. This license covers various settings, such as farms, nurseries, forests, and highway right-of-ways.

Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance License

The LCLM License is specifically designed for individuals working in landscape businesses and applying pesticides, including Roundup, to ornamental plants and plant beds. This license is commonly referred to as the “Roundup license” due to its focus on products with the signal word “caution” in these areas.

License Requirements and Procedures

To obtain the LCLM License, individuals must fulfill specific requirements set by the FDACS. These requirements include:

  1. Attending a six-hour training program approved by the FDACS.
  2. Completing an application form, attaching a photograph, and providing proof of insurance.
  3. Passing an exam administered by the FDACS.

The license is valid for one year and requires renewal annually. To renew the license, individuals must accumulate four Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and submit them to the FDACS.

Exam Voucher and Training Programs

To take the LCLM License exam, individuals must obtain an exam voucher from the FDACS. The process for acquiring the voucher involves applying for the license and following the instructions provided by the department.

Training programs for the LCLM License are offered in various counties across Florida. The frequency of these programs depends on demand. Counties like Hillsborough and Polk offer the program on a quarterly basis.

Conclusion

In Florida, applying Roundup requires a valid license, either a Restricted Use Pesticide License or a Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance License, depending on the intended use and location. Individuals seeking to obtain these licenses must meet specific requirements, including attending training programs, passing exams, and maintaining CEUs for renewal. By adhering to these regulations, individuals can ensure the safe and responsible application of Roundup in the state of Florida.

References

  1. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. (2020). Pesticide Certification FAQs. Retrieved from https://www.fdacs.gov/content/download/32304/file/Pesticide_Certification_FAQs.pdf
  2. Henry, M. B. (2019). Roundup® License—Is It for You? University of Florida IFAS Extension Polk County. Retrieved from https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2019/07/23/roundup-license-is-it-for-you/
  3. LawnSite. (2007). Apparently, no license needed for Roundup in Florida. Retrieved from https://www.lawnsite.com/threads/apparently-no-license-needed-for-roundup-in-florida.176012/

FAQs

1. Who needs a license to spray Roundup in Florida?

Anyone intending to use or supervise the application of Roundup, a restricted-use pesticide, in Florida requires a valid license. This includes individuals working in agricultural or landscape settings.

2. What types of licenses are available for Roundup application in Florida?

There are two main license categories relevant to Roundup application in Florida:

  • Restricted Use Pesticide License: Required for individuals using Roundup on agricultural or related sites, such as farms, nurseries, and highway right-of-ways.
  • Limited Commercial Landscape Maintenance (LCLM) License: Specifically designed for individuals working in landscape businesses and applying Roundup to ornamental plants and plant beds.

3. What are the requirements for obtaining an LCLM License in Florida?

To obtain an LCLM License, individuals must:

  • Attend a six-hour FDACS-approved training program.
  • Complete an application form, attach a photograph, and provide proof of insurance.
  • Pass an exam administered by the FDACS.

4. How long is the LCLM License valid, and how can it be renewed?

The LCLM License is valid for one year and requires annual renewal. To renew the license, individuals must accumulate and submit four Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to the FDACS.

5. Where can I find training programs for the LCLM License in Florida?

Training programs for the LCLM License are offered in various counties across Florida. The frequency of these programs depends on demand. Counties like Hillsborough and Polk offer the program on a quarterly basis.

6. Do I need an exam voucher to take the LCLM License exam?

Yes, individuals must obtain an exam voucher from the FDACS to take the LCLM License exam. The process for acquiring the voucher involves applying for the license and following the instructions provided by the department.

7. What is the purpose of the LCLM License being commonly referred to as the “Roundup license”?

The LCLM License is often called the “Roundup license” because it allows individuals to apply products with the signal word “caution” to ornamental plants and shrubs around buildings. Roundup is a commonly used herbicide that falls under this category.

8. Can I use Roundup without a license in Florida?

No, using Roundup without a valid license is illegal in Florida. Both the Restricted Use Pesticide License and the LCLM License are required for individuals applying Roundup, depending on the intended use and location.

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