Summary of Pinellas County Fertilizer Ordinance
Reducing our personal contribution to pollution by reducing or eliminating the use of fertilizers is an important step in improving water quality.
For those who choose to fertilize, the ordinance requires the following:
From June 1 through September 30, no fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorous can be used in Pinellas County.
From October 1 through May 30, the following conditions apply:
Content:
Nitrogen
Total Nitrogen = 50% or more must be slow release nitrogen
Phosphorus
Total Phosphorus = zero (0) phosphorous fertilizers must be used unless a state-certified laboratory soil test indicates a deficiency. Florida soils have naturally occurring phosphorous, and application of phosphorous fertilizer may not be necessary.
Application
Granular fertilizers: Up to one pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet per application
Liquid fertilizers: Up to one-half (0.5) pound of water soluble nitrogen per 1000 square feet per application
Annual limit: Up to 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet
No nitrogen application within 30 days of newly-installed landscape
Deflector shields must be used on fertilizer spreaders to keep granules off impervious (hard) surfaces and out of waterways. If they get on these surfaces, they must be swept up immediately.
These fertilizers can not be applied if the National Weather Service forecasts heavy rains to occur in the county within 24 hours.
They can not be applied within 10 feet of a body of water.
Commercial fertilizer applicators must be state-certified in Green Industry Best Management Practices and licensed (commercial fertilizer applicator license) through State of Florida FDACS. Pinellas County vehicle decal required on all fertilizer application service vehicles.
Commercial landscape must be trained in county-approved Best Management Practices for mowing, trimming and landscape debris management. Pinellas County decal required on all landscape service vehicles.
