Which type of pesticide must be applied by a permitted applicator?

Restricted use pesticides are designated as such because their potential hazards to human health or the environment warrant a higher level of oversight and control. Because of these risks, the law requires that they can only be applied by individuals who have received specific training and have obtained the necessary permits or licenses. This ensures that applicators are knowledgeable about the safe handling, application techniques, potential risks, and legal requirements surrounding these products.

General use pesticides, on the other hand, are considered safe enough for the general public to apply without specific training or certification. Public use pesticides are designed for application in public spaces and do not require the same level of training as restricted use pesticides. While commercial use pesticides are products intended for use by businesses or professionals, they don’t necessarily require the applicator to be permitted unless they fall under the restricted use category. This distinction is significant for regulatory compliance and safety practices in pest control.