FAQs

In the right-hand column of this page, you’ll see a link to one-page sheet summarizing the requirements of the ordinance. A copy of the full text of the ordinance is also available in the same area of this page.

All fertilizers in Manatee County must contain 0% phosphorus (N-0-K on the fertilizer label), unless you have obtained a soil test that indicates a phosphorus deficiency. The results of the soil test must be submitted to Manatee County prior to phosphorus application. From October 1 through May 31, granular fertilizers must consist of at least 50% slow release forms of nitrogen. From June 1 through September 30, no nitrogen or phosphorus containing fertilizers can be used - this is the blackout period.  During this period, compost and/or micronutrient fertilizers (Fe, Mg, Mn, or K containing fertilizers) are allowed as needed. A list of blackout-compliant products is also available on the county’s fertilizer webpage.

You, and all employees who apply fertilizer, will need to attend the Green Industries BMP training held by the county. The training consists of an 8 hr class with test. Upon successful completion of the class, applicators will receive a county-issued decal. The decal should be prominently displayed at the site where fertilizer is being applied.

Yes. You and/or your employees will need to obtain Landscape BMP training from the county. The training consists of a 3 hr class and test. Following successful completion of the training, each landscaper will receive a certificate and a decal from the county. These decals should be prominently displayed at the site where landscaping work (mowing, trimming, edging, etc.) is being performed.

Look for the Manatee County Decal on their vehicle indicating they have received BMP training in landscaping and/or fertilizer application. Decals from surrounding counties (Pinellas, Hillsborough, Sarasota) are also valid for work in Manatee County. If a decal is not observed, contact the county at the number on the website. You should also contact your homeowners association and encourage the hiring of only certified professionals.

The training needed for compliance with the ordinance is available through the county’s IFAS extension office. Call 941-722-4524 for more information, or visit their website at http://manatee.ifas.ufl.edu. Once the appropriate documents have been received (see county website for information regarding documents), the Manatee County Natural Resources Dept will provide a certificate and vehicle decal. For inquires regarding certificates and vehicle decals call the Manatee County Natural Resources Department at 941-742-5980 x1807. You can also make inquires by e-mail at this address: MCfertilizer@mymanatee.org.

Contact the county’s IFAS extension at 941-722-4524 for more information about appropriate fertilizers and application amounts for your landscaping.

Vegetable gardens, golf courses, athletic fields, and agricultural land (farms and cattle-grazing fields) are specifically exempted from the ordinance. Stores may continue to sell fertilizer products for these exempted uses, but owners & managers must abide by appropriate BMPs. 

Contact the Manatee County Natural Resources Dept at 941-742-5980 x1807 to report activities that may be in violation of the ordinance. You may also report these activities to us by e-mail at this address: MCfertilizer@mymanatee.org