Neonicotinoid Pesticide Exposure Protection Regulation – Highland Knowledge Hub

This article includes a brief summary of the regulations recently enacted by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR), known as the Neonicotinoid Pesticide Exposure Protection Regulations.

Topics covered in this article include:

Recent Regulatory Changes

Effective January 1, 2024, The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) adopted sections 6990 - 6990.16 of the Title 3 California Code of Regulations (3 CCR) to safeguard pollinators against the hazards associated with exposure to neonicotinoid pesticide products containing the following active ingredients:

Clothianidin
Dinotefuran
Imidacloprid
Thiamethoxam

Critical Information to Understand

These regulations apply to soil and foliar applications of these pesticides used in the production of certain agricultural commodities.
These regulations do not apply to neonicotinoid use in non-agricultural (e.g., structural or home use) or non-production agricultural (e.g., parks, cemeteries) settings, to applications to nursery stock, or to seed treatment applications.

For information regarding additional application types exempt from these regulations, see section 6990(c) Definitions and Scope for full details.

How it Affects You

CDPR advises those involved with selling, recommending, buying, or using these products to familiarize themselves with these regulations and grasp the following key points:

Applicators and growers are required to follow the new regulations.
Product labels will not be updated with these requirements.

Note: These regulations apply in addition to any requirements found on neonicotinoid product labeling. In the event of a conflict between these regulations and the instructions on the product label, the strictest requirement must be followed.

For questions, contact your local County Agricultural Commissioner or Pest Control Advisor.