Protecting the Health of our Community and Environment
What You Need to Know about Pesticide and Fertilizer Use in South Portland
The use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers on all public and private property is restricted in the City of South Portland (except in very limited circumstances). The City’s Landcare Management Ordinance (LMO) was enacted to create and foster vibrant landscapes that protect the health of people, pets, pollinators, and our critical waterways. The LMO establishes organic landcare methods as the primary means to care for and maintain property in South Portland, including lawns, gardens, athletic fields, parks, and playgrounds. The Landcare Management Advisory Committee is charged with advising the City Council and Sustainability Director on the ongoing implementation of the ordinance. Please see the fact sheets below for a quick reference on the LMO basics.
PESTICIDE ORDINANCE FACT SHEET
FERTILIZER ORDINANCE FACT SHEET
NEWS & UPDATES
Annual Commercial Applicator's Reports No Longer Required (Sept. 2023)
In July 2023, the City Council decided to stop requiring licensed commercial applicators to submit annual pesticides reports based on staff recommendations that this information proved to be of little value. Section 32-7 of the ordinance has been amended accordingly.
Notice to Applicants for New Development Projects - Soil Quality & Fertilizer Use Requirements (updated Sept. 2023)
The City's Landcare Management Ordinance now includes soil quality requirements for new development projects that result in 2,000 square feet or more of soil disturbance that will not be covered with impervious surfaces (e.g., buildings or pavement). Please see this document for more information.
VIDEO ON TRANSITIONING TO ORGANIC LAND CARE (Aug. 2021)
Click HERE to see full screen version of video
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| Why Restrict Pesticides and Fertilizers |
What You Need to Know |
Growing a Healthy Yard and Garden |
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| Events, Trainings & More | How the Ordinance was Created | Demonstration Projects |
The information contained in this site was drawn from multiple sources including: University of Maine Cooperative Extension, Friends of Casco Bay, Beyond Pesticides, Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, Northeast Organic Farming Association, and the Cumberland County Soil & Water Conservation District.