Pinellas Fertilizer Regulations
Pinellas County waters are experiencing a decline in water quality due to excess nitrogen and phosphorous. This prompts concerns about our marine life, our lakes and beaches, and our economy. Pinellas County is committed to addressing water quality issues on every front from Tampa Bay to our own back yards. Local governments spend millions of dollars each year to remove nitrogen from water bodies through various stormwater treatment methods. Fertilizer and grass clippings are sources of nutrients that can be controlled with your help!
In January 2010 the Pinellas County Commission approved an ordinance regulating landscape practices and the sale and use of fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorus.
Fertilizer is less of a problem when it’s used properly. If we use too much fertilizer or apply it at the wrong time it can easily leach into the groundwater, wash into storm drains, and flow into bays or streams. Just like in our gardens, fertilizer in bays and streams makes plants grow. In water bodies, too much nitrogen or phosphorous can cause harmful algae blooms that lower oxygen levels, turn the water a green or rust color, and lead to fish kills.
Residents:
- A Guide for Homeowners- Preventing Urban Runoff Pollution
- Calculate Your Fertilizer Use
- Resident Do-It-Yourselfers
- Guide to Fertilizer Ordinance Brochure En español
- Florida Yards and Neighborhoods – Fertilize Properly
- List of County Certified Landscapers
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