Persons requiring additional information regarding these regulations or other matters relating to pesticides in Vermont should contact:

Philip R. Benedict, Director

Plant Industry Division

Vermont Department of Agriculture, Food and Markets

116 State Street, Drawer 20

Montpelier, VT 05620-2901

(802) 828-2431

PREAMBLE

The goal of these pesticide regulations is to encourage the use of the most environmentally responsible approach to effective pest management. The Department of Agriculture, Food and Markets believes that with the knowledge and use of integrated pest management (IPM) skills and soil/water conservation techniques currently available, this goal will be achieved.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION I -DEFINITION

1. Accident: any release of a pesticide or pesticide mix from its container or application equipment which is contrary to label instructions for use of that pesticide, or which violates these regulations.

2. Agricultural commodity: any plant, or part thereof, including but not limited to sod and ornamental tree production, or animal or animal product produced by persons (including farmers, ranchers, vineyardists, nurserymen, Christmas tree growers, aquaculturists, floriculturists, orchardists, foresters, or other comparable persons) primarily for sale, consumption, propagation, or other use by man or animals.

3. Aircraft: a motorized device used for flight.

4. Anti-siphon device: any equipment designed and constructed to prevent the accidental backflow or siphoning of pesticide into any water supply or to prevent contamination by a pesticide of other materials being injected at the same time such as fertilizers or other pesticides.

5. Application sites or treatments for rights-of-way means:

a.Foliar: The placing of a pesticide upon the leaves of growing plants.

b.Basal: The placing of a pesticide upon the stem at the base of a growing tree or shrub.

c.Stump: The placing of a pesticide upon the cut surface of a stump.

d.Soil: The placing of a pesticide upon the ground for uptake by plants in the immediate vicinity.

6. Application of a pesticide: the placement for effect of any pesticide at or on the site where pest control or other response is desired.

7. Applicators regulated in Vermont are defined as follows:

a.Certified commercial applicator: any person certified under the categories and standards of Section VIII, Vermont Regulations for Control of Pesticides.

b.Commercial applicator: a person who applies pesticides to the lands or homes of another whether for remuneration or gratis under the direct supervision of a certified commercial applicator.

c.Private Applicator: any person who uses or supervises the use of any pesticide other than those classified restricted use on property owned or rented by the applicator that is residential in nature or on property owned or rented by the applicator or the applicator's employer for the production of an agricultural commodity. Private applicators may apply pesticides to the property of neighboring producers of agricultural commodities without a commercial applicator's certificate, providing that the applicator receives no compensation other than the trading of personal services between the applicator and his neighbor.

d.Certified private applicator: a private applicator who has been certified under the requirements of Section IX, Vermont Regulations for Control of Pesticides. Certified private applicators may purchase, use or supervise the use of restricted use pesticides.

e.Noncommercial Applicator: a person who uses or applies pesticides in the course of employment. It is anticipated by these regulations that in most instances the use of pesticides will comprise only a portion of the applicator's duties and that other employment responsibilities will be unrelated to pesticide application. Noncommercial applicators are exempt from the company licensing requirements. Noncommercial applicators without certification may apply only Class "C" pesticides in the course of their employment. Persons without certification who are hired as independent contractors for the exclusive purpose of applying Class "C" pesticides shall have the burden of proof in any departmental hearing to rebut the presumption that they are commercial applicators.

f.Certified Noncommercial Applicator: a noncommercial applicator who has been certified under the standards and categories of Section VIII, Vermont Regulations for Control of Pesticides. A certified noncommercial applicator may purchase, use or supervise the application and use of restricted and Class "B" pesticides in the course of their employment. Certified noncommercial applicators are exempt from the company licensing requirements. Certified noncommercial applicators shall comply with all other requirements of these regulations.

8. Appurtenance: all valves, pumps, fittings, pipes, hoses, metering devices, mixing containers, and dispensing devices which are connected to a storage container, or which are used to transfer liquid pesticide or pesticide rinsate into or out of a storage container.

9. Brownout: foliar discoloration resulting from the application of pesticides or other vegetation control methods.

10. Bulk pesticide: liquid pesticide in a container larger than 210 gallons (795 liters) or dry pesticide in undivided quantities greater than 100 pounds (45 kilograms). It includes mini-bulk pesticide containers, except as otherwise specified.

11. Chemigation: any process whereby a pesticide(s) is (are) mixed with water and applied through irrigation systems to land and/or crops including, but not limited to, agricultural, nursery, turf, golf course, ornamental or greenhouse sites through an irrigation system.

12. Commissioner: the Commissioner of Agriculture, Food and Markets of the State of Vermont or a duly authorized agent.

13. Company license: a license issued by the Department of Agriculture to business entities which apply any pesticides to the lands or homes of another person for remuneration. No person or business entity may contract to use any pesticide on the lands of another without first obtaining a company license. A company license does not exempt a commercial applicator from applicable certification requirements. The regulations pertaining to the company license became effective January 1, 1981, and can be found in Section VI of these regulations.

14. Conspicuous point of access: the usual and customary entrance(s) where people are likely to enter a treated area and observe warning signs pursuant to Section IV 8.

15. Demonstration: to conduct or supervise field research or exhibitions with old, new or experimental use pesticides or pesticide application methods or equipment or to exhibit, sell or recommend pesticides to the general public, pesticide applicators or pesticide dealers.

16. Department: the Vermont Department of Agriculture, Food and Markets.

17. Direct supervision: on-site supervision of pesticide application by a certified applicator who is capable of calibration of equipment, prescribing pesticides, calculating volumes of pesticides to be applied, and dealing with emergency situations which might occur.

18. Discharge: a spill, leak, accidental or intentional release, or other emission of pesticide from a storage container, container or appurtenance, and includes a discharge into secondary containment. It does not include a fully contained transfer of bulk pesticide which is made pursuant to sale, storage or distribution or releases that are in accordance with label directions.

19. Distribute: to import, consign, sell, offer for sale, solicit orders for sale, or otherwise supply pesticide for sale or use in this State.

20. Drift: the airborne movement of a pesticide during or immediately after its use or application to a site unintended for its use or application.

21. Dry pesticide: pesticide which is in solid form prior to any application or mixing for application and includes, but is not limited to, formulations such as dusts, wettable powders, dry flowable powders and granules.

22. Economic poison: any substance produced, distributed or used for preventing, destroying, or repelling any insects, rodents, nematodes, fungi, weeds, or other forms of plant or animal life or viruses, except viruses on or in living humans or other animals, which the Commissioner shall declare to be a pest or any substance produced, distributed or used as a plant regulator, defoliant or desiccant.

23. Enterprise: any form of doing business, including, but not limited to, sole proprietorships, partnerships, joint ventures and corporations.

24. EPA: the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

25. Equipment: any mechanical device used to apply pesticides.

26. Environmentally Sensitive Areas: include those areas which are significant wetlands as defined by the Vermont Wetlands Act, necessary wildlife habitat (10 V.S.A. Section 6001(12) and which contain endangered or threatened species (10 V.S.A. Section 5401(6) and (7).

27. FIFRA: the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, 7 USC 136 et seq.

28. Forest trees: plants which are primarily used for wood, watershed protection, land stabilization purposes, or wildlife habitat.

29. Fruit and crop plants: plants which are primarily used to produce food, forage, or seed.

30. Full-time employee: an employee who works 35 hours minimum per week. A full-time employee does not include seasonal personnel.

31. Golf Course: any contiguous area upon which the game of golf is played including such supporting operations as practice greens, tees and driving areas, whether existing or proposed.

32. Golf Course - existing: a golf course, after construction, when it has been opened for play.

33. Golf Course - proposed: a golf course, including expansions of existing courses, which is in the design, permit or construction stage and has not been open for play.

34. Ground water: water below the land surface which occurs in a saturated zone of the soil.

35. Half-Life: the time required for disappearance of one-half of the pesticide residue present.

36. KOC: a measure of the tendency of a pesticide to be strongly attached, by chemical or physical bonds, to soil particle surfaces. The higher KOC values have a stronger attachment to soil and a lesser tendency for the pesticide to move off-site except with sediment movement.

37. Loading: any act of transferring pesticide to or from any storage container or to any mobile application equipment.

38. Liquid pesticide: pesticide in liquid form and includes, but is not limited to, solutions, emulsions, suspensions, and slurries.

39. MSDS: Material Safety Data Sheet is a document required for each hazardous chemical including pesticides by the Occupational Health and Safety Act. It contains health and safety data as well as physical properties pertinent to the chemical which will aid in an emergency situation. MSDS can be obtained through the distributor or the manufacturer of the pesticide.

40. Manufacture: to process, manufacture, formulate, prepare, compound, package, repackage or label any pesticide.

41.Mixing: the act of combining pesticides and/or solvents or diluents for the purpose of application.

42. Ornamental and flowering shrubs and plants: plants used for ornamental purposes not otherwise classified as shade trees.

43. Person: any individual, partnership, association, corporation, or organization of persons whether incorporated or not, including any municipality, state, or federal agency or subdivision of any state.

44. Pesticide: economic poison as defined in 6 V.S.A. Section 911 and Section I 21. of the Regulations For Control of Pesticides.

45. Pesticide applicator: any person who uses any pesticide.

46. Pesticide dealer: any person who distributes, takes orders for sale, offers for sale or sells pesticides.

47. Prescreened Pesticide List: a list of pesticides which due to their relative immobility and limited persistence (as measured by parameters such as, but not restricted to solubility, KOC and half-life) are unlikely, under normal conditions and acceptable use, to leave established turf grass and enter surface and/or ground water.

48. Private Non-Residential Property: property open to the public and which is not a residence, such as an athletic field.

49. Public Non-Residential Property: property open to the public and which is not a residence, such as a commercial business.

50. Public Water System: any system or combination of systems owned or controlled by a person which provides piped drinking water to the public which has: a) has at least ten service connections, or b) serves at least an average of at least twenty-five individuals for at least 60 days a year. Public water system shall also mean any part of a piped system which does not provide drinking water, if such use of such a part could affect the quality or quantity of the drinking water supplied by the system.

51. Public (or private) Water Source Protection Area: a surface or subsurface area from or through which contaminants are reasonably likely to reach a public (or private) water source.

52. Public (or private) Water Source: any surface or ground water supply used as a source of drinking water for a public (or private) water system.

53. Restricted use pesticides: those pesticides classified under Section 3(d) of FIFRA as amended, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or those pesticides classified by the Commissioner as Class "A".

54. Right-of-way: an interest in real property, above, on or below the ground, which entitles the holder of the interest to pass over the land for the purpose of carrying, transmitting or transporting liquids, gases, electricity, communications, vehicles or people. For the purpose of these regulations, it is immaterial whether the right-of-way is owned, leased, or an easement. The term "right-of-way" includes properties owned or leased by utilities where that property is used as a right-of-way.

55. Shade trees: plants which are primarily used for shade, aesthetic value, ornamentation or windbreak.

56. Simple Dilution Analysis: an analysis involving the dilution of a chemical with an expected volume of precipitation available for infiltration within a watershed or hydrologic unit. Simple Dilution Analysis is used to assess the potential for a contaminant to be transported to groundwater through the process of infiltration.

57. Storage: storage of pesticide by a person who uses, manufactures or distributes pesticide.

58. Storage container: a container used for the fixed storage of bulk pesticide; a rail car, nurse tank, a portable container of mini-bulk pesticide or other mobile container which is used for the fixed storage of bulk pesticide for more than 15 consecutive days. It does not include a container which is used solely for emergency storage of leaking pesticide containers which are 55 gallons or smaller.

59. Storage facility: a location at which bulk pesticide is held in storage.

60. Surface Water: any river, stream, creek, brook, reservoir, pond, lake, spring and any other body of surface water, whether natural or artificial.

61.Turf: a covering of mowed vegetation growing together with an upper soil stratum of intermingled roots and stems.

62. Turf-grass: a species or cultivar of the plant family Graminae usually of spreading or upright habitat, which is maintained as a mowed turf.

63. Use of a pesticide: any handling, release or exposure of a pesticide to a human or the environment including, but not limited to:

a.application of a pesticide, which includes mixing or loading of equipment and any required supervisory action in or near the areas of application;

b.storage of pesticides and pesticide containers;

c.disposal of pesticides and pesticide containers; and

d.recommendation of pesticide applications.

64. Utility: railroad companies, pipelines operators, communication companies and electric companies whether public or privately owned.

65. Vegetation means:

a.herbaceous plants: species that do not develop woody stems;

b.brush: woody species of shrubs, trees, vines, and brambles generally not exceeding ten feet in height; and

c.trees: woody species generally reaching a height of ten feet at maturity.

66. Vermont Act 31: the State law enacted by the General Assembly of Vermont on May 3, 1985, relating to Community and Worker Right-to-Know; Sec. 1. 18 V.S.A. Chapter 36.

67. Water Supplies: any developed source of water whether public or privately owned, that is intended for human consumption.

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SECTION II -LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND PERMITS ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND MARKETS

1.Licenses - The following licenses are issued by the Department:

a.Company license: shall be obtained by business entities which apply pesticides to the lands and homes of others for remuneration. See Section VI.

b.Dealer licenses are issued in the following categories:

(1)Class "A": shall be obtained by persons who sell restricted use pesticides. Also entitles licensee to sell Class "B" and Class "C" pesticides. See Section X.

(2)Class "B": shall be obtained by persons who sell Class "B" pesticides. Also entitles licensee to sell Class "C" pesticides. See Section X.

(3)Class "C": shall be obtained by stores or other sales outlets which sell Class "C" pesticides. See Section X.

2.Certificates - The following certificates are issued by the Department:

a.Commercial and noncommercial applicator certificates: shall be obtained by persons who apply or supervise the application of pesticides to the lands and homes of others whether for remuneration or gratis. Applicators who apply pesticides under the direct supervision of a certified commercial applicator are exempt from the certification requirement. Noncommercial applicators (as defined in Section I. 8.) shall be certified if they use or supervise the use of Class "B" or restricted use pesticides in the course of their employment, except when they work under the direct supervision of a certified applicator. See Section VII.

b.Private applicator certificate: shall be obtained by private applicators (as defined in Section I. ) who wish to purchase and use restricted use pesticides. See Section IX.

3.Permits - The following permits are issued by the Department:

a.Aerial application permits: shall be obtained before applying pesticides from an aircraft. Two types of aerial permits are issued: an aerial agricultural permit which is good for an entire season and special aerial permits for specific jobs. See Section IV.

b.Right-of-way permits: shall be obtained before applying pesticides to rights-of-way, as defined in Section I. See Section IV.

c.Experimental use permits: shall be obtained to use an unregistered pesticide or to use a registered pesticide for an unregistered use. See Section IV.

d.Bird or animal permits: shall be obtained to control bird or animal pests that may be lethally controlled by use of a pesticide under statute or declared a pest by the Commissioner. See Section IV.

e.Special permits for the sale or use of specially restricted pesticides: shall be obtained before using specially restricted compounds as established by statute or these regulations. See Section IV.

f.Golf course permit: shall be obtained in accordance with the provisions herein before applying pesticides to a golf course. See Section IV.

4.Procedures for obtaining licenses, certificates, or permits.

a.Businesses or persons who wish to obtain a license, certificate or permit shall:

(1)Request the appropriate application form from the Plant Industry Division of the Department of Agriculture, Food and Markets;

(2)Complete the appropriate form and return it to the Plant Industry Division;

(3)Remit any fees required by law or these regulations when the completed form is submitted;

(4)Satisfy all prerequisites established by these regulations to demonstrate competence or financial responsibility for the particular license, certificate, or permit requested:

(a)Examinations required as part of the prerequisite for a license or certificate will be maintained for a period of one year unless an active file is established; and

(b)Inactive files will be destroyed one calendar year after a holder of a license or certificate fails to renew that certificate or license.

(5)Businesses and persons proposing to store, use or distribute pesticides are advised that the statutes and regulations administered by the Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Program may be applicable to them. For further information, write or call the Vermont Department of Labor and Industry, 7 Court Street, Montpelier, Vermont; telephone number: 802/828-2765.

 

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SECTION III - POWERS OF THE COMMISSIONER

1.Suspension or revocation of licenses, certificates, or permits.

a.The Commissioner may amend, suspend or revoke any license, certificate or permit for failure to comply with 6 V.S.A. Chapter 87 or any rule or regulations adopted under its authority or for being subject to a final order imposing a civil penalty under 7 USC Section 136(j) or for being convicted under 7 USC Section 136(j) on due notice to the licensee or holder of the certificate or permit, with an opportunity for hearing if a written request is filed with the Commissioner within five (5) days of receipt of a notice of violation.

b.If the Commissioner finds that public health, safety or welfare imperatively requires emergency action and the Commissioner incorporates a finding to that effect in his order, summary suspension of a license, permit or certificate may be ordered, pending proceedings for revocation or other action.

2.The Commissioner may restrict or regulate any pesticide product or device which is deemed to be ineffective or which constitutes an undue hazard to the public or the environment. Any person aggrieved by a decision of the Commissioner under this section may request a hearing within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of notice of the decision. The hearing shall be for the purpose of reviewing evidence pertaining to the ineffectiveness of the product or the hazard presented to the public from use of this product.

3.Pesticide cease and desist order.

a.The Commissioner may issue a cease and desist order for failure to comply with 6 V.S.A. Chapter 87 or any rule or regulation adopted under its authority with an opportunity for hearing if a written request is filed with the Commissioner within five (5) days of receipt of the cease and desist order.

b.It shall be unlawful to violate a cease and desist order.

4.The Commissioner may, in furtherance of the purpose of 6 V.S.A. Chapter 87 and the regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, enter the business premises of any licensed company, certified applicator, or persons using pesticides to inspect records, equipment or obtain pesticide samples.

The Commissioner may enter any job site at which a certified applicator is employed or where pesticides are used to request information regarding pesticide use at that site, to test equipment or to obtain samples of pesticides or other samples including, but not limited to: soil, water, air, food, plant material and animal tissue, from both treated and untreated areas.

5.The Commissioner may enter into reciprocal agreement with officials of other states and federal agencies and grant certificates on a reciprocal basis provided that:

a.Certification requirements are substantially the same as those required by Vermont;

b.The certified applicator knows and abides by Vermont's pesticide control law and regulations;

c.The certified applicator pays all appropriate fees;

d.The certified applicator is a resident of and has a valid pesticide applicator license or certificate issued by a state which has established a reciprocal agreement with Vermont; and

e.The certified applicator's reciprocal certificate is valid for the entire calendar year. Applicators with certificates which expire on dates other than December 31 of each year shall provide confirmation that their certificate has been renewed by their state of residence within forty-five (45) days from the date of expiration. Failure to provide confirmation will result in the revocation of reciprocal certificates.

6.In addition to authority conferred by these regulations, the powers of the Commissioner include all statutory authority vested in the Commissioner, now or in the future, to enforce state pesticide laws and regulations. The Commissioner shall develop and implement policies and strategies for the management of pesticide use and the protection of ground and surface water resources.

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SECTION IV -RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE AND APPLICATION OF PESTICIDES

1.Registered and recommended uses of pesticides.

a.All pesticide uses or recommendations for use shall comply with that pesticide's label, which shall be registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department (except as provided under authority for pesticide use in Section 18 and 24(c) of FIFRA as amended).

b.Pesticide Drift - Pesticide applicators shall use pesticides and conduct operations under conditions known to minimize contamination of non-target land and water areas.

2.Standards of operations - All pesticide applicators and licensed companies:

a.Shall use only methods and equipment which insure safe and efficient application of materials.

b.Shall use equipment with an effective anti-siphoning device to prevent backflow when drawing or pumping water to fill pesticide application devices.

c.Shall use equipment with an effective anti-siphoning device to prevent backflow when drawing or pumping water to be used in chemigation operations.

d.Shall operate in a careful manner and only when climatic, pest or other conditions are proper for controlling pests in the locality.

e.Shall make no false or fraudulent claims. The term "fraud" includes, but is not limited to, intentional misrepresentation through verbal or written statements, the media, falsified records, invoices or reports or false statement on applications for licenses or certificates.

f.Shall fill out weekly spray reports accurately.

g.Shall conform to the application restrictions established in 6 V.S.A. Chapter 87, the Regulations for Control of Pesticides and permits issued thereunder.

h.Shall cooperate with Department requests to observe spraying operations, to inspect equipment, to inspect pesticide related records, to inspect business premises and to conduct pesticide-related sampling.

i.Shall apply all pesticides consistent with their labeling. Use of a pesticide in the following manner shall be considered application consistent with the labeling:

(1)applying a pesticide at any dosage, concentration or frequency less than specified on the labeling;

(2)applying a pesticide against any target pest not specified on the labeling if the application is to the crop, animal or site specified on the labeling except when the labeling specifically states that the pesticide may be used only on pests specified on the labeling;

(3)employing any method of application not prohibited by labeling;

(4)mixing a pesticide with fertilizer when such mixture is not prohibited by labeling or state regulations;

(5)using a pesticide for agricultural or silvicultural purposes at a dilution factor less than label dosages as authorized by the EPA in regulations or in advisory opinions.

j.Shall provide the following information (on a bill, invoice or other written documentation) to all customers or persons for which pesticide applications are exchanged for remuneration, at the time of application except for applications under Section IV 8:

(1)the common or trade name for each pesticide used;

(2)the EPA registration number for each pesticide used;

(3)the amount of each pesticide used;

(4)the pest(s) treated for; and

(5)the name and signature of the applicator.

k.Are advised that Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Program requirements may be applicable to their activities.

l.Shall use pesticides so as not to exceed the primary groundwater quality enforcement standards identified in Chapter 12.702 of the "Ground Water Protection Rule and Strategy" in accordance with 10 V.S.A. Chapter 48.

m.Shall manage the use of pesticides to reduce the concentrations of pesticides in groundwater to the preventive action limits established by Chapter 12.702 of the "Ground Water Protection Rule and Strategy" when monitoring indicates the presence of pesticide concentrations in groundwater that exceed the preventive action limits.

n.Shall obtain a Water Quality Permit (from the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, Water Quality Division), prior to using pesticides in waters of the State.

o.Shall maintain a fifty (50) foot buffer when applying pesticides which provide control within the soil profile around any existing private well unless written permission allowing a lesser distance has been granted by the well owner.

3.Protection of Bees - To prevent destruction of pollinating insects and contamination of honey crop, all persons are prohibited from spraying pesticides to flowering crops, including but not limited to alfalfa, apples, blueberries, clover, pumpkins, raspberries, squash or trefoil without prior notification of apiculturists who have established apiaries on the premises. Any individual hiring commercial applicators shall be responsible for notification of the apiculturist prior to the application. Apiculturists who are notified of spraying operations shall remove their bees from the area or cover the hives to prevent exposure.

The following pesticides are exempt from the requirement of Section IV, subsection 3:

a.Blossom thinning sprays consisting of sodium salt or 4,6-Dinitro-o-cresol (DNC) or Dinitro orthocylcohexylphenol.

b.Fungicides.

4.Rights-of-way clearing and maintenance

a.No person, including utilities as defined in Section I., shall use herbicides for the purpose of clearing or maintaining a right-of-way without first obtaining a permit from the Commissioner for each application as provided in this section.

(1)A request for permission to use a herbicide on a right-of-way shall be made before April 1 of the year of the proposed spray application.

(2)Application shall be made on a form provided by the Commissioner. In the case of utilities, as defined in Section I., the application shall be signed by an officer of the utility and who shall agree to conditions to be set forth by the Commissioner in the permit. Final action by the Commissioner will be taken only after the submitted application form has been forwarded to the Vermont Pesticide Advisory Council (VPAC) members for review and recommendation in accordance with 6 V.S.A. Section 1102(d)(1).

(3)The application form shall be accompanied by two sets of geodetic maps marked with the right-of-way. With the assistance of the Department of Health, the Department of Agriculture, Food and Markets, shall mark the public water supplies along the right-of-way and return one set of maps to the permit applicant. The other set shall be retained by the Department on permanent file. Subsequent requests for permits to treat the same right-of-way shall require re-submission of the permit applicant's set of maps for update.

b.After applying for a permit to use herbicides on a right-of-way, the permit applicant shall publish a notice of the intent to use herbicides which satisfies the following criteria. A copy of the notice shall be supplied to the Department prior to publication. The notice shall:

(1)be published not less than 25 days nor more than 60 days before the commencement of spraying;

(2)be published for one (1) day a week for two (2) consecutive weeks in each of two (2) newspapers prescribed in Appendix B, for every county to be affected by the right-of-way spraying. If the notices are printed in a daily newspaper, the notice shall be published on Thursdays. If notices are printed in a weekly newspaper, the notices shall be published on whatever day the paper is published;

(3)be at least two (2) columns wide by three (3) inches high;

(4)set forth the name and address of the permit applicant; a reasonable identification of the affected right-of-way; the names of the towns where the spraying is to be done; the approximate date of the herbicide application; that a permit has been requested from the Commissioner; the method by which the herbicide is to be applied; the chemicals to be used; the name, position, address and telephone number of a person from the permit applicant to contact for further information; the address and phone number of the Department of Agriculture, Food and Markets, identifying it as the appropriate place to contact with comments and/or complaints; a warning to residents along the right-of-way that water supplies and other environmentally sensitive areas near the right-of-way should be protected from spray and that it is the resident's responsibility to notify the contact person of the existence of a private water supply near the right-of-way.

c.Applicants conducting vegetative management along rights-of-way shall submit a long-term vegetative management plan which should include:

(1)A general statement of policy and goals;

(2)Identification of a biologically sound schedule to achieve long-term objectives including a specified time interval between original control and subsequent scheduled control;

(3)Description and identification of the species to be eliminated or controlled versus the species to be left in various types of vegetative settings;

(4)List and description of techniques and conditions under which given mechanical, chemical and other methods would normally be considered appropriate;

(5)Procedure for identifying, evaluating, reporting and responding to right-of-way maintenance problems;

(6)Establishment of clearance standards sought, based on kilowatt of transmission line and the part of the right-of-way to be controlled; i.e., central strip, side strip, high visibility, other;

(7)Establishment of standards and practices for:

(a)Wetlands;

(b)Wildlife;

(c)Erosion control;

(d)Aesthetic considerations.

(8)Establishment of right-of-way inspection and monitoring standards including frequency of inspection, manner of inspections and what is to be taken note of; suggested list -- heights of road crossing screens or ideal clearance level, danger trees, evidence of tree-conductor contact, species identification, conditions of sensitive areas, notation of condition of specially or experimentally treated areas;

(9)Retention of records to coincide with maintenance cycle of company including right-of-way inspection dates, maintenance schedules, maintenance activities;

(10)Provisions for periodically reviewing,evaluating and revising long-range plans and the time interval for such revisions;

d.In addition to newspaper advertisements, further notification by one of the following methods containing the informtion set forth in 4.b.(4) shall be provided by:

1)three (3) spot messages per day on each of two (2) radio stations in the area of spraying on two (2) consecutive days during the two-week period prior to the commencement of spraying.

(2)U.S. mail to residents adjacent to the right-of-way during the calendar year of spray application, at least two weeks prior to such application.

(3)a personally delivered printed statement to residents of property adjacent to the right-of-way during the calendar year of spray application, at least ten (10) days prior to such application.

e.The permit applicant shall notify the Department of the option used and the dates implemented. The text of this notice shall be supplied to the Department prior to implementation.

(1)Upon notification by the landowner or water supply user, the permit applicant shall mark private water supplies on their maps.

(2)Prior to spraying, the permit applicant shall flag all public and private water supplies marked on their maps as well as other sensitive areas as designated by the Commissioner in the permit.

(3)The permit applicant shall furnish the certified applicator with a copy of the right-of-way maps showing flagged areas and a copy of the approved permit.

(4)The applicator shall not spray near the flagged areas.

f.All right-of-way clearing or maintenance by the use of herbicides shall be conducted by certified applicators or persons working under the direct supervision of certified applicators.

g.All uses of herbicides on rights-of-way shall be conducted by the certified applicator in a manner that minimizes the extent and duration of foliar brownout.

h.Right-of-way spraying operations shall be conducted in a manner and under weather conditions which prevent deposits of pesticides to areas outside the rights-of-way.

i.The clearing of brush, trees and other vegetation from rights-of-way shall be conducted in accordance with other applicable provisions of state and federal laws and regulations.

j.All operations conducted prior, during or subsequent to the aerial application of pesticides to rights-of-way, including, but not limited to, gaining access, landing of aircraft, refilling operations and the like, shall not be conducted on private lands near the right-of-way without the owner's prior written permission. Written permission shall be maintained by the permit applicant for one (1) year following completion of the operations and shall be available to the Commissioner upon request.

k.All permits issued by the Commissioner shall establish buffer strip distances to protect the waters of the state. Buffer strip distances shall be determined according to the type of spray operation, properties of chemicals to be used and the characteristics of the areas to be treated.

5.Aerial applications of pesticides

a.An applicant applying for a company license or certificate to engage in aerial application of pesticides shall meet all the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Vermont Agency of Transportation, Aeronautics Section, to operate the aircraft and equipment described in the application.

b.Aerial applications shall be conducted by certified applicators only.

c.All aerial pesticide applications require an approved permit prior to application.

(1)Aerial applicators shall obtain a permit for each contract to apply pesticides for purposes other than the treatment of agricultural commodities. Permits may not be issued for more than one spray season.

(2)Aerial applicators shall obtain a permit annually for the treatment of agricultural commodities.

d.Materials listed on Attachment A, subsection 2, "Control Details for Permit Application", as recommended by the Vermont Extension Service or other state agencies will be used for permit review.

6.Experimental use permit

a.Any person who desires to use an unregistered pesticide or who desires to use a registered pesticide for an unregistered use shall first obtain an experimental use permit from the Commissioner. Permits may be issued for three (3) kinds of experimental uses:

(1)A state-issued permit as authorized under Section 5(f) of the FIFRA (as amended) to accumulate information or data necessary to register a pesticide use for special local needs.

(2)A state-issued permit to conduct laboratory or greenhouse tests or limited replicated field trials to confirm such tests or other tests in which the purpose is to determine the value of the substance for pesticide purposes or to determine its toxicity or other properties to the extent permitted under EPA regulations.

(3)A state-issued authorization to conduct an experimental use in Vermont for all or some of the uses provided in the label under the experimental use permit issued by EPA pursuant to Section 5(a-e) of FIFRA as amended.

b.A state experimental use permit may, subject to the terms and conditions of the state's certification from the Administrator of EPA, be issued when the Commissioner determines that the conditions under which the use of the experimental pesticide will be conducted are satisfactory. The permit shall be for a specified period commensurate with the experimental program submitted, but in any case not to exceed one year. Permits may be renewed or extended upon request if circumstances warrant. The permittee shall supervise the test program and evaluate the results of testing at each site of application. The permittee shall report immediately to the Commissioner any adverse effects from the use of or exposure to the pesticide.

c.A report shall be submitted to the Commissioner at the conclusion of the experimental pesticide treatment or at the expiration date of the experimental use permit. The report shall include the data gathered during the testing program, the dates of application, any adverse effects to the environment and recommended directions for use which might be submitted for future registration.

d.The application of a pesticide under a state experimental use permit shall be under the supervision of a certified applicator as required by labeling and any additional restrictions imposed by the Commissioner in the permit.

e.When a pesticide is applied to a food or feed crop under an experimental use permit where a tolerance has not been established for that particular crop and use pattern, then:

(1)the crop must be destroyed after harvest; or

(2)the crop may be used for further testing, provided that the crop may not be consumed by humans. If the crop is consumed by test animals, the animals or animal products may not be used for human or animal consumption.

7.Bird and other animal control exclusive of the phylum chordata (families Cricetidae and Muridae).

Cricetidae: (moles and voles)

Muridae: (rats and mice)

a.Bird and animal pests are those that may be declared a pest by the Commissioner. The Commissioner may declare a bird or animal to be a pest in a specific situation where there is a likelihood of damage to health, the economy or where harm to other wildlife may occur or in the event of injury or severe annoyance.

(1)Types of use that may be authorized by permit:

(a)Area-wide application of pesticides on agricultural commodities, wildlife and for human protection.

(b)Limited-area applications of pesticides where the use of those pesticides could have a detrimental effect on non-target animal life adjacent to the structure, lot or yard which is specifically treated or may affect food or food products.

b.Any licensed company or certified applicator applying pesticides for the lethal control of pest birds or other pest animals shall apply to the Commissioner, on an approved form, for a permit to perform such control operation.

(1)The application for a permit shall state the problem and the pest to be controlled, the pesticide to be used, rate to be applied, the area to be treated, disposal of the controlled pest and unused pesticide and the treatment time period.

(2)For municipal or community-wide operations, a written request or statement granting permission for such operation signed by an official of the municipality shall be submitted with the request.

c.All requests for application of pesticides for bird or animal control on open land shall be reviewed by the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department and Vermont Department of Health and notification of all limited-area requests for application of pesticides shall be submitted to the aforesaid departments if approved by the Commissioner.

d.Control operations may also be subject to guidelines or directives which are established by the Vermont Commissioner of the Fish and Wildlife Department, Vermont Commissioner of Health, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Vermont Commissioner of Labor and Industry.

e.Permits are not required for the use of animal or bird repellents.

8.Notification and Posting of turf-grass and landscape pesticide application:

a.No outdoor application by certified commercial or non-commercial applicators of pesticides to turf-grass or landscape plants shall be made on residential, single or multi-family or public non-residential properties, such as athletic fields without the following provisions having been met.

(1)At the time the service is being requested, the customer shall be provided with written information regarding the identification of the pesticides (common or trade name, EPA Registration number) and the rates being proposed for use. In addition, the customer shall be informed, in writing, of the availability of labels and Material Safety Data Sheets for these pesticides and any existing EPA Fact Sheets for the active ingredients contained within.

(2)At the beginning of each application, the applicator shall post a sign(s) prescribed below, at conspicuous points of access to the treated area(s). The applicator shall leave such sign(s) posted with instructions to remove 24 hours after application. This shall mean that if a property has more than one entrance or point of access then the corresponding number of signs shall be posted. Thespecifications of the sign shall be as follows:

(a)Shall be at least 4 x 5 inches, of sturdy, weather resistant material

(b)Shall be with contrasting colors using the indicated point type size

(c)Shall contain no additional words or symbols on the front panel; however, the back panel may include any additional information such as emergency number or company name

(d)Shall be posted at least 12" above the ground

(e)Shall contain the date and time of application on the back of the sign

C A U T I O N

Pesticide Application

KEEP OFF UNTIL DRY

CUSTOMER: Please remove after 24 Hours.

(3)Immediately upon completion of each application, the applicator or their employer shall leave at the residence or with the property manager a written statement containing the following information:

(a)Name, address and telephone number of the company or non-commercial facility providing service

(b)Pesticide applicator's name and certification number

(c)Common or trade name, EPA Reg. #, amount used and pest(s) treated for each pesticide applied

(d)Post-application label safety precautions, if applicable

(e)Application date, time and location

(f)Instructions that signs should remain posted for at least 24 hours

(4)Upon request, by either customer or adjoining landowner, a copy of the pesticide label, Material Safety Data Sheet or available EPA Fact Sheet shall be provided by the applicator or their employer.

(5)Upon request, the applicator or their employer shall provide the customer with prior notification of the timing of each pesticide application.

NOTE: Golf courses shall be regulated by Section IV 8b. of this regulation. Outdoor commercial or noncommercial pesticide application to turf-grass or landscape plants made on private non-residential properties shall comply with either Section IV 8a. or Section IV 8c. of the regulations.

b.Pesticide applications made by certified commercial or noncommercial applicators on golf course turf-grass or landscape plants shall require the posting of a written notice on the clubhouse bulletin board or the first tee by the course superintendent or their designee.

(1)The written notice shall contain information as specified under Section IV 8a.(3)(a-f) and include the specific location and number of each fairway, green, tee and driving area, etc., where pesticide is applied. The Commissioner reserves the right to approve the use of alternate wording to fulfill the written notice requirement on a case by case basis. Alternate wording must be submitted to the Commissioner, in writing and approved prior to its use.

(2)The notice shall be posted prior to application and remain on the bulletin board or the first tee for at least 24 hours after application.

(3)Upon request, a label, Material Safety Data Sheet or EPA Pesticide Fact Sheet for the specific pesticide(s) used shall be made available to any golfer using the facility or course employee for their review.

c.Outdoor commercial or noncommercial pesticide application to turf-grass or landscape plants made on fenced, private non-residential properties shall require the posting of a written notice(s) in visitor reception area(s) and main employee entrance(s) by the grounds superintendent or their equivalent. All other private non-residential properties without fencing shall comply with Section IV 8.a.

(1)The written notice shall contain information as specified under Section IV 8a.(3)(a-f) and the specific location where each pesticide is applied.

(2)The notice shall be posted prior to application and remain in place for at least 24 hours after application.

(3)Upon request, a label, Material Safety Data Sheet or EPA Pesticide Fact Sheet for the specific pesticide(s) used shall be made available to any visitor or facility employee for review.

d.This regulation does not cover the injection of pesticides directly into plant material and does not apply to rights-of-way or utility applications.

e.This regulation does not apply to private pesticide applicators or certified private pesticide applicators.

9.Golf Course Permits:

a.No person shall use a pesticide(s) on a golf course without first obtaining a permit from the Commissioner as provided in Section IV 9. except as described in Section IV 9.b. The permit process shall begin as follows:

(1)Existing golf courses shall submit to the Commissioner their name, address, location and information identifying surface water, private water sources of abutting landowners, public water sources, private or public source protection areas and environmentally sensitive areas present on the golf course. The amount and type of pesticide used on the golf course over the last three (3) years is also required. A form will be provided by the Commissioner for the submission of this information.

(2)The Commissioner shall determine a schedule staggered over the next five (5) years when each golf course existing on the effective date hereof shall file an application for a permit and shall notify each course in writing, certified mail, return receipt requested. The scheduling of golf courses will be prioritized on the basis of risk and will require those golf courses with the highest risk potential to submit first.

b.An existing golf course may continue to use pesticides until either it fails to file an application for a permit on the date scheduled by the Commissioner or a permit is denied.

c.An application for a permit shall be on a form provided by the Commissioner and conform to the provisions of Section IV 9 h. and be signed by an officer of the golf course and the golf course superintendent completing the form, who shall agree to the conditions to be set forth by the Commissioner in the permit. Applications for a renewal permit shall be filed with the Commissioner three (3) months prior to the expiration of the existing permit. An application for renewal shall detail any proposed changes to the existing pesticide management plan of the golf course.

d.The Commissioner will forward the application to the Vermont Pesticide Advisory Council (VPAC) for review and recommendation under 6 V.S.A. Section 1102(d)(1). VPAC's review shall be based on the established requirements of statutes, regulations and guidelines.

e.The Commissioner shall issue or deny the permit after consideration of VPAC's recommendation, risk to human health and the environment, the pesticide management plan as it relates to the use of pesticides and the past history of the golf course. The Commissioner may restrict or deny the use of a pesticide in accordance with 6 V.S.A. Section 1104(3) and other applicable provisions of the law. All parties aggrieved by a decision of the Commissioner under this section may request a hearing within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of notice of the decision.

f.Permits issued by the Commissioner:

(1)Shall be conditioned on the operation of the golf course according to an approved pesticide management plan.

(2)Shall, when necessary and appropriate, establish additional buffer strips to protect surface waters and environmentally sensitive areas. The need for buffer strips shall be determined according to the type of application, properties of chemicals to be used and characteristics of the areas to be treated.

(3)May require sampling and analysis of ground and surface water as a condition to the use of a pesticide. Those pesticides on the Prescreened Pesticide List would not require sampling or analysis unless the Commissioner determines that this type of information is critical to the evaluation of the risk to human health or the environment. Due to its cost, sampling and analysis will be required only when the Commissioner determines it is reasonably necessary to assess compliance with statutory or regulatory standards for protection of the environment or human health and will limit the variables. All parties aggrieved by a decision of the Commissioner under this section may request a hearing within fifteen (15) days of the receipt of notice of the decision.

(4)To a proposed golf course shall be conditioned on the course being built as is represented in the application and requires the applicant to submit proof within sixty (60) days after completion.

(5)Shall be issued for a period of five (5) years and therefore expire at the end of the five (5) year period. The permit shall identify the pesticides permitted either by specific reference to each pesticide or reference to the Prescreened Pesticide List. The use of other pesticides may be added by modification of the five (5) year permit. Modifications shall be requested on forms provided by the Commissioner and shall be processed, issued or denied in the same manner as provided for permits, except that the term shall coincide with the term of the permit being modified.

g.The Commissioner shall approve and maintain the Prescreened Pesticide List along with specifications for its use on golf courses upon review and recommendation from VPAC. Pesticide(s) may be added or deleted at any time. Any person may submit to the Commissioner a request to add or delete a pesticide under this section. The request shall include a current EPA Pesticide Fact Sheet or equivalent and any other data desired to be considered. The Commissioner shall either approve or deny the request and notify the applicant in a timely manner.

h.Applications for a permit to use pesticides on a golf course shall contain the following information:

(1)General Information

(a)Name of the golf course

(b)Location

(c)Mailing address

(d)Golf Course Superintendent who is responsible for completing the application

(e)Name and position of an officer of the golf course

(f)Date of application

(2)Permit Status

(a)Initial, renewal or modification

(b)Course classification; existing, existing with proposed expansion or proposed

(3)Pesticide Information. Identification of the pesticide(s) to be used as follows:

(a)Pesticides found on current Prescreened Pesticide List. Indicate specific pesticides by common and trade name and EPA Registration Number.

(b)Pesticide(s) other than those found on the Prescreened Pesticide List shall be identified by both common and trade name, EPA Registration Number and by attaching a current EPA Pesticide Fact Sheet or equivalent. The KOC, solubility, half-life (soil) and any additional information as specified in Section IV 9h.(6) shall be provided for each pesticide.

(4)Golf Course Description. A description of the golf course as it exists or is designed as follows:

(a)A site plan (which may be an orthophoto map, scale 1:5000'), marked with the following:

i. tees, greens and fairways, by hole number and supporting operations;

ii. areas irrigated and source of water for irrigation;

iii. all surface waters identified by name, if known;

iv. all known ground waters;

v. private water sources of abutting properties;

vi. public water sources and source protection areas;

vii. identification and location of any environmentally sensitive areas;

viii. property boundaries;

ix. each building and its use; and

x. legend, scale, north designation;

(b)A topographical map, which may be a U.S.G.S. topographical map with the boundaries of the golf course identified thereon and a general written topographical description including minimum and maximum slopes and any distinct topographical features.

(c)The square feet of each green and tee, and identification of any green or tee which is within 100 feet of any surface waters.

(d)Approximate acreage of each fairway specifying closely mowed areas and rough areas individually.

(e)The square miles of the drainage area for flowing waters at the point of exit from the golf course property.

(f)The surface acreage and average depth of any ponded surface waters and the location of its primary source of supply.

(g)A soils map and key as mapped by the United States Soil Conservation Service or other reliable source, including identification of soils of high erodibility.

(5)Pesticide Management Plan. A detailed account of how pests such as insects, weeds, diseases and rodents are managed on the golf course as follows:

(a)A general statement of the policy and listing of the goals of the pesticide management plan, including the golf course's strategy for minimizing pesticide use;

(b)A description of pest problems associated with turfgrass and ornamentals during the past five (5) years, including locations and the extent of infestation. For proposed golf courses a description of anticipated pest problems and the rationale for each;

(c)A description and rationale of the pest management strategies that are or will be employed, including biological, chemical and cultural controls;

(d)A description of pest monitoring practices that are or will be utilized;

(e)A description and location of pesticide storage, handling and mixing areas; a Spill Response Plan and proposed measures to prevent accidental releases;

(f)A description of irrigation practices, including the type of system used, rates and intervals of irrigation;

(g)For proposed golf courses, a description of any unique feature of its design which will minimize pest problems;

(h)A description of any buffer zone established or to be established to protect surface waters, private and public water supplies, and environmentally sensitive areas.

(6)Other Pesticides, Additional Information. When the use of a pesticide(s) is (are) requested which is (are) not found on the current Prescreened Pesticide List or when otherwise required by the Commissioner to evaluate risk, the applicant will provide additional information which will justify the use of the pesticide within an acceptable level of risk. The following information or any other pertinent information may be submitted in support of this justification:

(a)Expected pesticide concentrations:

i.nearest private and all public water sources of concern using a Simple Dilution Analysis, calculated using a proportion of either well yield and/or precipitation and irrigation;

ii.in flowing surface water at the point of exit from the golf course boundary.

iii.in standing surface water only when deemed necessary after consultation with the Department of Environmental Conservation, Water Quality Division.

(b)In graphic or matrix form, a comparison between the expected pesticide concentrations and Vermont Water Quality Guidelines, Chapter 12 Groundwater Protection Rule Standards and Department of Health Drinking Water Standards.

(c)The hydrogeologic setting, including hydrogeologic flow patterns, receiving waters, recharge and discharge areas, range of depth to groundwater, aquifer type, if present and hydraulic conductivity.

(d)Identification of any environmentally sensitive areas and a general discussion of whether the use of pesticides will destroy or significantly imperil the same.

i.Golf courses shall keep and maintain operating records and report pesticides on forms provided by the Commissioner for that purpose as follows:

(1)Operational records of pest problems encountered, control methods employed and their effectiveness, the type and amount of pesticide(s) used, its purpose, date and area of the golf course where applied; a record of rainfall; and a summary of irrigation utilization. These records must be maintained for a period of five (5) years and shall be made available to the Commissioner upon request.

(2)A pesticide use record for each calendar year shall be submitted to the Commissioner prior to January 1 of the following year. A form will be provided by the Commissioner for this purpose.

(3)Maintenance of the records and report of pesticide use as provided above shall exempt the golf course or certified applicators employed by it from the record and reporting requirements of Section V. 2, 4 and 6.

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SECTION V -MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS BY CERTIFIED LICENSED COMPANIES, LICENSED PESTICIDE DEALERS AND PESTICIDE PRODUCING ESTABLISHMENTS

1.Certified private applicators shall record, for all restricted use pesticides, the pesticide product name, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Registration Number, amount used, date of application, location of application (farm name and town) and the pest(s) treated for during each year. This information is to be held for a period of two years and shall be furnished to the Commissioner upon request.

2.Certified commercial and certified noncommercial applicators shall keep and maintain pesticide operational records in a manner prescribed by the Commissioner on forms provided for that purpose.

a.Routine operational records shall be kept which state the pesticide product name, EPA Registration Number, amount used, date of application, location of application (farm name and town) and the pest(s) treated for during each year. These records must be maintained for a period of two years and shall be made available to the Commissioner upon request.

b.A pesticide use report shall be submitted to the Commissioner annually. The report shall state the EPA Registration Number, the product name, the manufacturer, the amount used, the general purpose for which it was used and the county in which it was used.

c.Annual pesticide use reports shall be submitted together with an application for the renewal of certification to the Commissioner prior to January 1 of each year. Commercial and noncommercial pesticide applicator certificates shall not be renewed without the submission of an annual use report. Annual use reports shall be submitted regardless of whether pesticides were applied during a given year or not.

3.Persons applying pesticides under the authority of a permit issued by the Department shall comply with all record keeping and reporting requirements imposed by the Commissioner as conditions of the permit.

4.Licensed companies shall be responsible for maintaining routine operational records and submitting the annual pesticide report. Certified noncommercial applicators, who do not work for licensed companies, will continue to be responsible for the maintenance and submission of these records.

a.The licensed company shall collect operational records required by this section from its certified applicators and hold them for a period of two years. These records shall be made available to the Commissioner upon request.

b.The annual pesticide use report shall be submitted together with the company license renewal application to the Commissioner prior to January 1 of each year.

5.Licensed Class A dealers shall keep and maintain records of the sales of pesticides and shall make them available for inspection to the Commissioner. Records shall be maintained on forms provided by the Commissioner.

a.A report of special permit and restricted use pesticides sold on a calendar year basis shall be submitted together with the application for license renewal to the Commissioner by all Class "A" pesticide dealers prior to January 31 of the following year. Reports may be required by the Commissioner at any other time, provided the request is made in writing.

b.Pesticide dealer reports shall include the product name, the EPA registration number, the size and number of containers and the county of intended use. For the purpose of reporting the county of intended use, pesticide dealers may use the applicator's county of residence.

c.Annual sales reports must be submitted regardless of whether or not restricted use pesticides were sold.

6.Annual records may be required for treatments of pests as deemed necessary by the Commissioner.

7.In the event that a certified applicator, licensed company or licensed pesticide dealer should choose not to renew a certificate or license, the annual use and/or sales reports are still required for the last year in which a valid certificate and/or license was held.

8.Refer to Section XII, Community R

ight-to-Know, for a complete description of additional requirements that may be applicable to pesticide companies, applicators, dealers and producers.

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SECTION VI - COMPANY LICENSE

1.Any enterprise applying pesticides to the land or home of another for remuneration must be licensed by the Department. Exceptions to the company license requirement shall be:

a.Doctors of Medicine and Doctors of Veterinary Medicine applying pesticides as drugs or medication during the course of practice.

b.Applicators certified under Category 10, making recommendations and applying pesticides in demonstration or research programs.

c.Private applicators who apply pesticides to a neighbor's property in exchange for services.

d.Certified and noncertified noncommercial applicators.

2.The company license shall be renewed yearly. The license shall extend from January 1 through December 31.

3.A fee of forty dollars ($40.00) shall be charged for a company license.

4.The Commissioner may deny an application for a company license when the applying company is owned, controlled, or operated by persons or their employees who have been determined to have violated Vermont's pesticide laws, or any rule or regulation adopted under its authority, or any order of the Commissioner under 6 V.S.A. Chapter 87 within two years preceding the date of application.

5.Applicants who are denied a company license may request a hearing to review the decision within fifteen days of receipt of the denial.

6.Licensed companies and those requiring licensing shall be responsible for ensuring they only employ pesticide applicators that are properly certified under these regulations, prescribed by the Commissioner in Section VIII and that applicators employed by them remain certified for the duration of their employment with the company, except that those employees working under the direct supervision of a certified applicator need not be certified.

Licensed companies shall supply the Department with a list of all certified commercial applicators they employ. They shall send written notice to the Department within thirty (30) days whenever a certified commercial applicator is hired or leaves their employment.

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SECTION VII -REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTIFIED COMMERCIAL AND CERTIFIED NONCOMMERCIAL APPLICATORS.

1.All noncommercial applicators who use other than Class "C" pesticides and all commercial applicators who use pesticides shall be certified in accordance with the applicator standards established in these regulations, or work under the direct supervision of a certified commercial or certified noncommercial applicator. (See definition of "direct supervision", Section I.)

Exceptions: Persons conducting research in laboratories, or Doctors of Medicine or Doctors of Veterinary Medicine applying pesticides as drugs or medication during the course of their normal practice are exempt from the certification requirement.

2.The candidate for certification shall satisfactorily meet standards prescribed by the Commissioner in Section VIII.

3.Candidates for certification shall take a written examination covering general standards and specific standards required for each category an individual expects to operate under. A candidate must be certified in each specific category that he or she intends to work in.

a.A candidate shall have a maximum of three opportunities to achieve a passing score on the certification examination during a twelve (12) month period. This twelve (12) month period shall begin on the date the candidate takes the first examination. After an initial failing score a candidate must wait at least seven (7) days to retake the examination. If a candidate fails twice, there shall be at least a twenty-eight (28) day waiting period before retaking the exam for the third time.

4.Certificates issued in any category may be further restricted by the Commissioner as a condition of issuance, when the Commissioner determines that the restrictions are necessary to protect human life or the environment. For example, a certain category certificate may be restricted to allow only the use of specific pesticides in that type of work.

5.Fees: A fee of twenty dollars ($20.00) shall be assessed for each category or sub-category certification issued. The maximum total fee charged for categories per candidate shall be seventy-five dollars ($75.00). Payment of fees for persons who are employees of federal, state or municipal government and who apply pesticides as part of that employment shall be waived.

6.The certification year will extend from January 1 through December 31.

a.Certification of noncommercial and commercial applicators may be renewed annually for up to five years after which recertification shall be required. The Commissioner may furthermore require recertification whenever necessary and determine the procedure to be utilized involving either additional training or reexamination.

b.Certified noncommercial or commercial applicators shall send written notice to the Department within thirty (30) days of changing employers. The name of the new employer shall be supplied in the notice.

7.Denial of certificate: The Commissioner may deny issuance of a certificate to any person failing to adequately demonstrate competency on any examination or who otherwise fails to participate in training required in lieu of written examination or who is currently under a suspension or revocation of certificate by the Commissioner.

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SECTION VIII -CERTIFICATION STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL APPLICATORS AND NONCOMMERCIAL APPLICATORS USING OTHER THAN CLASS "C" PESTICIDES

1.Noncommercial applicators who use pesticides other than Class "C" and all commercial applicators, except those who work under the direct supervision of a certified applicator, shall be certified according to categories which reflect the types of pesticide use for which they have been examined and found competent.

Applicants for certification in the categories and sub-categories described in this section shall demonstrate their competence to meet standards described under general standards, category specific standards and standards for supervision of noncertified applicators in this section. Applicants shall take a written examination covering general standards and specific standards required for each category an individual expects to operate under.

2.Description of categories and sub-categories.

a.Category 1: Agricultural Pest Control.

(A)Plant - For use in production of food, forage and fiber agricultural crops.

(B)Animal - For use on animals and to places on or in which animals are confined. Doctors of Veterinary Medicine engaged in the business of applying pesticides for hire, publicly holding