We understand that keeping up with changes in pesticide laws might not be at the top of your to-do list. However, new regulations rolling out in 2025 affect how you treat pests on your property or job site.
New pesticide laws impact how certain products can be used, who can apply them, and what safety measures must be followed. Whether you’re dealing with ants in the kitchen, cockroaches in the bathroom, or managing insects on a larger scale, it’s important to understand how these updated laws may impact the products you use for pest control.
What Are Pesticides?
Pesticides are substances used to prevent, destroy, or control pests. This can include insects, weeds, fungi, rodents, and more. They come in many forms, including sprays, powders, baits, and traps.
Common types of pesticides include:
- Insecticides: Target pests like cockroaches, ants, and termites
- Herbicides: To kill unwanted weeds and plants
- Fungicides: Stop mildew, mold, and other fungi
- Rodenticides: To manage rodents like rats and mice
Who Governs and Enforces Pesticide Laws?
Pesticides are carefully regulated at both the federal and state levels to ensure they’re used properly. The following agencies play a crucial role in regulating the distribution and application of pesticides.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA is the primary federal agency responsible for regulating pesticides under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
Key roles include:
- Approving or denying pesticide regulations
- Reviewing scientific data to determine health and environmental risks
- Enforcing labeling and safety standards nationwide
State departments of agriculture or environmental protection
Each state has its own agency that:
- Enforces EPA regulations at the state level
- Issues pesticide applicator licenses
- May set stricter regulations than the federal minimum
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
OSHA is not directly involved in pesticide approvals. However, they do set workplace safety standards, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and worker protection standards for those handling hazardous materials, including pesticides.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC monitors and studies the public health impacts of pesticide exposure. It also contributes to research that can influence future regulation.
Stricter Pesticide Label Requirements
One of the most noticeable changes is the information required on pesticide labels. Before, some labels were vague or hard to understand. Now labels are no longer just fine print; they’re your first line of safety.
What’s changing:
- More detailed usage instructions: Labels must clearly outline safe use, protective equipment, and application information
- Precautionary labels are more visible: Labels must now show warnings like “Keep Out of Reach of Children” and specific hazard warnings more prominently
- Mandatory bilingual labels: Pesticide labels must not be written in both English and Spanish on most consumer products
- QR codes and digital links: Some products will include QR codes that lead to up-to-date safety data and video demonstrations for proper use
Understanding these laws and reading new labels carefully is important. Misuse of pesticides could lead to fines or, worse, health and environmental hazards.
Banned or Restricted Ingredients
Several chemicals that were commonly used in household and commercial pesticides have now been banned or severely restricted due to updated research on their long-term effects. This is part of an effort to reduce long-term health risks and protect pollinators like bees.
Recently banned or restricted active ingredients include:
- Chlorpyrifos: A common insecticide, it is now banned in food crops and restricted in many residential uses. This product has been linked to neurodevelopmental harm in children.
- Paraquat dichloride: This one allows for some use in agriculture but requires special certification and safety training because of its toxicity. It is extremely hazardous if ingested or inhaled.
- Neonicotinoids: The use of this pest control product is being restricted due to its harmful effects on bees.
If you are a contractor, you should check with your suppliers to ensure all the products you use meet legal requirements. If you are a homeowner, be sure to avoid using stockpiled ingredients—check your garage shelves.
Certification Requirements for Contractors
In 2025, the EPA raised the bar for who can apply restricted-use pesticides (RUPs).
If you are a pest control provider, here’s what you need to know:
- Annual recertification: All certified pest control operators must complete annual training to stay up to date with pesticide laws and safety practices
- Apprentice supervision: Non-certified pest control applicators (apprentices) must now be directly supervised on-site by a certified specialist
- Special endorsements: Specific endorsements are required for using certain high-risk chemicals or methods
Tip: If you are a pest control contractor, keep proof of your certification on hand during every job. It’s now required for both inspections and customer assurance.
Record-Keeping Requirements for Contractors
New laws are emphasizing strict record-keeping for pesticide use.
Contractors must now keep detailed records about every pesticide application, including:
- Product name and EPA registration number
- Location and date of pesticide application
- Amount used and targeted pest
- Name of certified pest control operator
These records must be stored for a minimum of 2 years. You may want to use a digital recordkeeping system or app to log pesticide applications in real time. This is a faster, more accurate, and easier way to update.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment
The EPA has expanded its PPE requirements under the Worker Protection Standard (WPS). Now, both licensed pest control operators and homeowners using restricted pesticides must wear specific protective gear based on the product’s pesticide label.
Minimum PPE now includes:
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Long sleeves and pants
- Protective eyewear
- Respirators (for certain high-toxicity products)
This change is all about safety. Improper exposure to pesticides can cause skin irritation, breathing problems, and even long-term health issues. PPE is your first line of defense.
Tip: Always check the product label before applying any pesticide. The label should specify exactly what PPE you need.
Eco-Friendly Pest Control Options
New laws now provide stronger incentives for using eco-friendly or “green” pesticides. Pest products that are biodegradable, non-toxic to pollinators, and safe around kids and pets. New pesticide laws require more detailed justification when choosing more toxic chemical products.
Eco-friendly pest control alternatives could include:
- Biopesticides made from natural substances like bacteria or plant oils
- Physical barriers and traps integrated into long-term pest management
- Smart pest monitoring systems that use sensors and data to target specific infestations
2025 Compliance Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist to help homeowners and contractors stay compliant.
Homeowners:
- Check product labels for updated instructions and bilingual warnings
- Avoid using pesticides with any banned ingredients
- Wear proper safety gear when applying any pesticide
- Dispose of old or restricted chemicals safely
- Hire only licensed and certified pest control companies
Contractors:
- Renew your EPA/state certification and complete the required training
- Verify that all pest control products comply with the 2025 ingredient and label laws
- Maintain up-to-date records for every pesticide application
- Ensure all workers use and understand proper PPE
- Keep clients informed about what products you’re using and why
Potential Consequences of Not Complying With Pesticide Rules and Regulations
Failing to follow the new pesticide regulations can have serious consequences, both for individuals and businesses.
Here are some potential consequences of failure to comply:
- Fines and citations: Using a banned product or ignoring PPE requirements could result in penalties from your state’s pesticide regulatory agency. Fines can be up to $50,000.
- Legal liability: If your pesticide use harms a neighbor’s property, pets, or health, you may be held legally or financially responsible.
- License suspension or revocation: Certified pest control applicators who break the rules may have their license suspended or revoked, shutting down business operations temporarily or permanently.
- Environmental damage: Misapplication of chemicals near water sources or gardens can harm pollinators, pets, and local ecosystems.
- Health hazards: Improper use of pesticides can lead to skin irritation, respiratory problems, or long-term health issues.
- Damage to reputation: If you’re a contractor, non-compliance can harm your brand. Word spreads quickly, especially if environmental or health damage occurs.
- Worker safety violations: For business owners with employees, failing to supply proper PPE or training can lead to OSHA citations, lawsuits, and increased insurance premiums.
Why Hire a Licensed Pest Control Operator?
With stricter laws, tighter penalties, and evolving product requirements, navigating pest control on your own can be tricky.
Hiring a licensed pest control company ensures:
- Compliance with state and federal regulations: Our licensed pest control technicians are fully trained in the latest federal and state pesticide regulations.
- Safe, effective treatments: We use the right protective gear and tools to apply products safely and correctly. Your family, pets, and property are kept safe.
- Record keeping and accountability: Our pest control company handles all documentation, reporting, and compliance checks. You don’t have to worry about violating local laws or endangering your loved ones.
- Eco-friendly and targeted solutions: We offer low-impact pest control options tailored to your environment. Our technicians work to reduce chemical use while still getting results.
- Fast, reliable results: We don’t just treat symptoms—we target the source. With professional equipment and target treatment plans, you get long-term relief from pests.
Questions on the New Pesticide Laws? Contact Insight Pest Management Today
While these new regulations may take some adjustment, they ultimately create safer homes, healthier communities, and a cleaner environment. Insight Pest Management stays ahead of the curve so you don’t have to.
All of our pest management products are fully compliant with the latest laws. We also offer eco-friendly pest control services as an option for those looking for the safest possible solution.
Are you unsure about a pesticide product or process? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our pest control professionals. We’re always happy to help! Call Insight Pest Management or fill out our free quote form today.
