Certification to Engage in Use of Pesticides

There are two classes of commercial certification - supervisory and operational.  In addition, farmers and other growers are classified as private applicators.

A commercial junior operator certificate is required for commercial applicators who actively use pesticides in a non-supervisory capacity. The operator certification only allows the holder to use pesticides under the direction of a certified supervisor; receiving written instructions for every pesticide application they make. The operational certificate does not allow the holder to purchase restricted pesticides or to run their own pesticide business.  

A commercial supervisory certificate is required for commercial applicators who are responsible for deciding whether or not pesticides are to be applied, how they are to be mixed, where they are to be applied, what pesticides are to be used, the dosage and timing involved in the pesticide use and the methods of application and precautions to be taken in the use of such pesticides. The supervisory certificate allows the certificate holder to purchase restricted-use pesticides, directly pertaining to their category(ies), from a registered dealer. 

An arborist license is required for people who are advertising, soliciting or contracting to do arboriculture (tree care) in Connecticut.

A private applicator certificate must be obtained by a farmer in order to purchase and use restricted-use pesticides on agricultural crops.  It is also needed in order to be in compliance with Worker Protection Standard. Only one certificate per farm is needed.

Report emergencies to DEEP Emergency Response Unit 24 hours a day at 860-424-3338.

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Useful Phone Contacts: Poison Control Center:  1-800-222-1222

Contact the Pesticide Program: 

Phone:  (860) 424-3369
E-mail:   deep.pesticideprogram@ct.gov
Postal mail: