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Pesticide Licensing Information

EXAM APPLICATIONS: There is a new sytem for registering for the pesticide exam that became active in August 2017. You must register for the pesticide exam online using the state's "EEA ePLACE Portal".

On March 3, 1993, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources' Pesticide Board approved revision and modification of the Licensing and Certification Regulations (sections 9 and 10 of 333 CMR) and reorganization of certain parts of section 10 into section 13, "Standards of Application." In October 2010, Section 14 was added to the existing regulations. This section primarily addresses compliance with the "Act to Protect Children and Families from Harmful Pesticides" that was passed in 2000. In October 2016, there were significant changes for individuals who are applying "restricted use pesticides" under that direct supervision of a certified applicator. You can also download the pesticide laws and regulations from the MDAR website or you can order the study manuals through the UMass Extension Bookstore.

State Licensing Law

The Massachusetts General Law has been amended to require that individuals who use pesticides "as part of their duties" in and around apartment buildings, condominiums, schools, etc. are required to obtain a Massachusetts Applicator License or Certification. This includes janitors, maintenance personnel, and landlords. This will affect anyone who applies pesticides when in the employ of a municipality, public or private school, or similar situation.

For additional information on these changes or on any aspect of the Massachusetts Pesticide Laws and Regulation, contact the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources @ (617) 626-1720, 251 Causeway Street, Suite 500, Boston, MA 02114.