Pesticide Classification
Ontario Classification of Pesticides
Under the Pesticides Act and Regulation 63/09, the Ontario Ministry of Environment classifies pesticides into one of eleven classes. You need a pesticide certificate or licence to sell, purchase and use some of these classes.
If you are a farmer, you need a Grower Pesticide Safety Course certificate to purchase or use Class 2 or 3 pesticides.
If you are a vendor, you need a General Vendor Licence to sell Class 1, 2, 3 or 4 pesticides AND you must have at least one full-time staff member who is certified through the Pesticide Vendor Certification Course.
If you are a commercial applicator, you must hold an Exterminator Licence to purchase and use Class 2, 3, and 4 pesticides – and you also need your Exterminator licence to apply any Class of pesticide on property that belongs to someone else.
If you are a homeowner, you may only purchase and use Class 5, 6 and 7 pesticides.
Find out about the Classes of the pesticide products you use. Ask your pesticide vendor, check OMAFRA production publications or check the Ontario Ministry of Environment web site:
Want to find the Class for a specific pesticide? Search the PEPSIS database
Summary Chart - Who can sell, purchase and use each Ontario Class?
Summary Chart - What are the Hazards and Federal Classifications for each Ontario Class?
Need more information about pesticide classification? Check the Ontario Ministry of Environment pesticide classes page.