Cannabis cultivators and licensed pesticide applicators in California must adhere to strict guidelines for pesticide use. To assist growers, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) has developed a comprehensive list of pesticide products that meet the state’s legal criteria for use on cannabis. Here’s an overview:
Approved Pesticide Products
– Resource List: DPR’s list includes approximately 100 pesticide products (as of December 2024) that meet California’s legal use criteria for cannabis cultivation.
– Scientific Review: These products have been reviewed by the U.S. EPA and DPR for human health and environmental impacts. They are registered for use on similar crops but not specifically on cannabis.
– Exemptions: The products on the list are exempt from U.S. EPA tolerance requirements, meaning residues on crops are not considered a risk to human health or the environment.
Important Notes About the List
– Not a Recommendation: The list is not an endorsement of any specific product or a complete list of all possible options.
– Excluded Products: Products exempt from registration under FIFRA 25(b) or 3 CCR 6147 are not included, as they are not scientifically reviewed by DPR.
– No Advertising Allowed: It is illegal to advertise pesticide products specifically for cannabis use since “cannabis” does not appear on product labels.
Adding or Removing a Product
To request a product review or addition to the list, email cannabis@cdpr.ca.gov with the product name and EPA registration number. DPR will review the request within 21 business days.
Pesticide Residue Testing
– Cannabis products must undergo pesticide residue testing by a DCC-licensed laboratory before being sold.
– Allowable residue levels are established in DCC regulations with input from DPR.
– Applicators must understand application rates, timing, and regulations to avoid residue test failures.
For more details, including pesticide testing requirements for cannabis, visit the DCC website. Ensure compliance with California’s pesticide laws to protect consumer health and your operation.
