Fertilizer Guidelines & Restrictions

Why Do We Need an Ordinance

June 1, 2010, St Johns County Commissioners approved an ordinance regulating the use of fertilizers and to provide accurate management guidelines for the application of fertilizers.  The fertilizer ordinance regulates the use of fertilizers containing Nitrogen and Phosphorus commonly referred to as nutrients, to prevent excess nutrients from entering our waters as a result of drainage and runoff. Proper fertilizer application will minimize negative effects of fertilizers to protect the quality of our surface and ground waters that are critical to maintaining a healthy environment, economy, and recreational opportunities. Fertilizer Restrictions Flyer

What it Does

The ordinance regulates fertilizer management practices and sets rules for the proper application and use of fertilizers.

Key Components of the Ordinance:

• All agriculture and silviculture activities are NOT regulated under this Ordinance.
• Fertilizer application guidelines allow no more than 5 lbs of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet, per year, and less in some cases depending on type of grass. The State requires all fertilizer sold in Florida to be labeled consistent with this rule.
  
  

  Species	Lbs of Nitrogen / 1,000 sq Ft / year
  Bahia	2-3
  Bermuda	1-2
  Centipede	1-2
  St. Augustine	2-4
  Zoysia	3-5

• Fertilizers shall not be applied if there is a flood, tropical storm or a hurricane watch or warning issued by the National Weather Service for St. Johns County, or if heavy rain is likely.
• Fertilizer shall not be applied within ten (10) feet, or three (3) feet if a deflector shield or drop spreader is used, of any surface water body.
• All commercial and institutional applicators of Fertilizer within St. Johns County shall abide by and successfully complete the six-hour training program in the “Florida Friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of Water Resources by the Green Industries” (2008).
• All fertilizer businesses must ensure that at least one employee has an appropriate “Florida Friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of Water Resources by the Green Industries” (2008), as amended,training certificate prior to the business owner obtaining a Local Business Tax Certificate.

Who It Applies To

The ordinance applies to anyone both personal and professional. And it provides exemptions for agriculture, golf courses, and specialized turf. The ordinance does not apply to farms, pastures, golf courses, and other specialized turf areas already under appropriate best management practices. Training for landscapers will be provided through the University of Florida St. Johns County Extension Service.

More Information

For more information, contact Code Enforcement at (904) 209-0734 or report a violation using PRIDE.

Resources

• University of Florida St. Johns County Extension Service.
• Classes on Green Industry Best Management Practices.