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Neonicotinoids

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Neonicotinoids


Neonicotinoids (neonics) are a class of insecticides that are used on agricultural crops, lawns, gardens, golf courses, and in flea and tick pet treatments.This includes but is not limited to pesticide products containing the following chemicals: acetamiprid, clothianidin, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, nitenpyram, nithiazine, thiacloprid, thiamethoxam. 

RESTRICTIONS ON CERTAIN USES OF NEONICOTINOIDS


In 2024, the Washington State Legislature passed Substitute Senate Bill 5972 (SB 5972), restricting certain uses of neonicotinoid pesticides under (RCW 15.58.485). Beginning January 1, 2026, neonicotinoid (neonic) pesticides can only be applied to outdoor plants, trees, or turf by licensed applicators, by tree injection, or for agricultural purposes.   

WSDA issued an interpretive statement clarifying that neonicotinoid pesticides labeled for outdoor plant uses will be designated as commercial use and may only be distributed by a licensed pesticide dealer.  

Goals/Intent

This state law is intended to protect pollinators by limiting the use of neonics and reducing the likelihood of pesticide misapplications that can harm pollinators.  


 

What Pesticides are Impacted?

Neonicotinoids that are labeled for outdoor plant use, including trees and turf, are designated for commercial use only. This does not impact products for indoor pest control, including flea and tick treatments for pets.  

How will this impact you?

  
Pesticide Product Registrants All neonicotinoid pesticide products labeled for use on outdoor plants, including trees and turf, will be designated as “Commercial Use.” If your pesticide product meets this criteria and is currently categorized as “Home and Garden Use (H&G use),” it will be re-designated according to WSDA’s interpretive policy statement. Contact WSDA’s Pesticide Registration Program for assistance with pesticide registration.  
Marketplaces Can only distribute, sell, or supply H&G use pesticide products. May not distribute neonicotinoid pesticides that are labeled for use on outdoor plants, turf, or trees without getting certified to become a licensed Pesticide Dealer.
Licensed Pesticide Dealers Must maintain a pesticide dealer endorsement on their business license. Are allowed to distribute non-H&G use pesticides, including neonicotinoids that are labeled for use on outdoor plants, turf, and trees. Please reference the Pesticide Dealer checklist for a complete list of requirements. 
Outdoor Home Use Beginning January 1, 2026, only licensed applicators can use neonicotinoid pesticides on outdoor ornamental plants, including turf and trees. Unlicensed applications would be a violation of  (RCW 15.58.485). Neonic products labeled for indoor uses and control of pests (like fleas and ticks) on pets are not impacted and can still be used.
Licensed Pesticide Applicators & Agricultural Users Will need to purchase all neonicotinoid products from Licensed Pesticide Dealers. No impacts to applications expected. 

Contact Us

Contact PCompliance@agr.wa.gov with any questions.