The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is responsible for investigating pesticide-related complaints and rule violations under Washington State law. Misuse of pesticides can occur if pesticides drift off target and cause damage to non-target plants, animals, or human health. The Pesticide Compliance Program is also responsible for investigating complaints related to worker protection standards and improper sale and distribution of pesticides.
Under the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), WSDA can assess a maximum penalty of $7,500 per violation and/or suspend, deny or revoke a license. A penalty matrix is used to ensure penalties are uniform and fair. The matrix takes into account the seriousness of the violation, whether it is a first or a repeat offense, and whether there are any aggravating or mitigating factors involved. Larger penalties often reflect repeat offenses or multiple violations within the same incident.
Under the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), WSDA can assess a maximum penalty of $7,500 per violation and/or suspend, deny or revoke a license. A penalty matrix is used to ensure penalties are uniform and fair. The matrix takes into account the seriousness of the violation, whether it is a first or a repeat offense, and whether there are any aggravating or mitigating factors involved. Larger penalties often reflect repeat offenses or multiple violations within the same incident.
