Subdivision 1. Applicability. This section applies only to statutory and home rule charter cities that enact ordinances as provided in this section.

Subd. 2. Authority. Statutory and home rule charter cities may enact an ordinance containing the pesticide application warning information contained in subdivision 3, including their own licensing, penalty, and enforcement provisions. Statutory and home rule charter cities may not enact an ordinance that contains more restrictive pesticide application warning information than is contained in subdivision 3.

Subd. 3. Warning signs for pesticide application. (a) All commercial or noncommercial applicators who apply pesticides to turf areas must post or affix warning signs on the property where the pesticides are applied.

(b) Warning signs must project at least 18 inches above the top of the grass line. The warning signs must be of a material that is rain-resistant for at least a 48-hour period and must remain in place up to 48 hours from the time of initial application.

(c) The following information must be printed on the warning sign in contrasting colors and capitalized letters measuring at least one-half inch, or in another format approved by the commissioner. The sign must provide the following information:

(1) the name of the business organization, entity, or person applying the pesticide; and

(2) the following language: "This area chemically treated. Keep children and pets off until ...(date of safe entry)..." or a universally accepted symbol and text approved by the commissioner that is recognized as having the same meaning or intent as specified in this paragraph. The warning sign may include the name of the pesticide used.

(d) The warning sign must be posted on a lawn or yard between two feet and five feet from the sidewalk or street. For parks, golf courses, athletic fields, playgrounds, or other similar recreational property, the warning signs must be posted immediately adjacent to areas within the property where pesticides have been applied and at or near the entrances to the property.

History: 1987 c 358 s 51