Commercial Lawn Care

Lawn care companies must meet certain requirements to operate in Prince Edward Island. 

What licenses and certifications are required?

A lawn care company must hold a valid Class E (landscape) Pesticide Application Business License if they wish to apply pesticides. A company holding this license must submit, annually, a detailed record of their pesticide use. Each individual who applies a pesticide for a lawn-care company must hold a valid Class E (landscape) Pesticide Applicator Certificate. The broadcast application of any pesticide by a licensed applicator is discouraged.

What products are banned and restricted?

The use of pesticides containing 2,4-D is restricted to application on commercial golf courses. Golf courses can continue to purchase and use commercial pesticides containing the active ingredient 2,4-D, under the provisions of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. 

PEI Municipalities have the authority to create their own bylaws that could influence what pesticides can be used within their boundaries. You must ensure that you are well informed of these bylaws. 

How do I dispose of product?

Old or unwanted commercial pesticides and pesticide containers are considered hazardous waste. These should be returned to the vendor for proper disposal. 

What about compliance and enforcement?

Public education and outreach is important when promoting compliance. Inspections, investigations, orders, and prosecutions will also be used to ensure compliance with existing legislation. Violations under the PEI Pesticides Control Act are subject to financial penalties ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 for a person and $5,000 to $250,000 for a corporation.