Oversight of California Pest Control Board Changes Hands

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Legislation passed and signed during the 2009 legislative session transfers the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB) from the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) to the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR).

DPR evaluates and registers pesticides, oversees pesticide use enforcement, and licenses companies and individuals who conduct pest control work in agriculture and in non-structural settings. SPCB regulates the structural pest control industry, licensing businesses and individuals who conduct structural pest control. Under the direction of DPR, county agricultural commissioners enforce pesticide laws and regulations, including pesticide use by structural pest control licensees.

DPR and DCA are committed to making the transfer as seamless as possible for individuals and companies regulated by the Board, and for consumers who use their services.

To do this, the agencies have agreed that DCA should continue to manage the Board functions through June 30, 2010. This will ensure that examination, licensing and complaint resolution activities will be unaffected while the transition occurs. DPR and county agricultural commissioners will continue to be responsible for enforcing pesticide laws and regulations.