Who oversees pesticide applications?

Florida mosquito control programs are established and operated according to the procedure given in the Mosquito Control Law, Chapter 388 Florida Statue (F.S) and the Mosquito Control Rules, Chapter 5E-1 3, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act of 1972 (FIFRA) requires that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) be certain that all personnel handling hazardous or restricted chemicals be trained to do so correctly and safely and that they be certified as pesticide applicators.


The state agency administering the certification is appointed by the governor of each state. In Florida, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) is the lead agency. The law requires that every person applying pesticide be certified or be supervised by a certified applicator. Every Florida district and program goes to great lengths to see that all personnel are trained in proper handling, use and application of pesticides. There are training courses offered throughout the year and each winter there is a week long short course which offers job specific training. This training results in the certification of all mosquito control personnel.


Program directors must abide by a number of laws and regulations to provide for the safe use of pesticides by all employees. Directors are obligated to meet the requirements of the right to know law and the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). Ultimately, directors are responsible for everything that goes on within their administration.

Show All Answers

1. What attracts female mosquitoes to humans?
2. What purposes do mosquitoes serve?
3. Why can't mosquito control programs spray during the day?
4. When can I expect to see a spray truck?
5. Is the spray harmful to people or pets?
6. Do mosquitoes carry AIDS?
7. What criteria are used when deciding when and where to spray?
8. Who oversees pesticide applications?
9. What if I am allergic to DEET?