“On March 10, 2020, the Baker-Polito Administration declared a state of emergency due to Coronavirus (COVID-19). The Administration has advised that gatherings of 10 or more people be discouraged to prevent and mitigate the spread of the COVID-19. On March 25, 2020 the Department announced that it was cancelling the pesticide exam for 30-days.
This situation significantly impacts pest control services; especially, the seasonal businesses such as lawn care and mosquito and tick services. The Department has been exploring options on how to ensure that businesses maintain operations while also ensuring Department standards of protecting the environment and public health are met.
Therefore, the Department has decided that it will issue TEMPORARY LICENSES under the condition below.
Reinstatement of Expired Licenses
- The license has an expiration date of December 31, 2017 or after and is not eligible to renew their license for 2020.
- The license was in good-standing when it expired
- Applicator has not had a pesticide violation within the past three (3) years
- Applicator formerly passed all required exams and was issued a Massachusetts Pesticide License that expired
- Applicator provides a resume or letter of recommendation from their former employer indicating he or she worked in their industry for at least 6-months
- Applicator reviews and self-certifies that they reviewed MA Pesticide Laws and Regulations-a guidance document to be developed by the Department
- Applicator provides a current Certificate of Liability Insurance meeting Department Financial Requirements (insurance)
Conditions of the License
- All licenses will expire on December 31, 2020. If the individual wants to be licensed in 2021 they will be required to take the pesticide exam.
- If someone with a temporary license commits a violation, the license will be immediately revoked.
If you would like to obtain a temporary license please contact Laurie Rocco at: laurie.rocco@mass.gov and in the subject line put “Temporary License”.
While this is a very challenging time, please know that the Department is committed to serving its constituents and stakeholders and will continue to work in the most helpful and supportive manner possible. We appreciate your patience and understanding, as together, we navigate this rapidly evolving situation.
If you have any questions about this Bulletin, please contact Michael McClean, Chief Pesticide Inspector, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, at Michael.Mcclean@mass.gov.”
