Fertilizer Information

The City of DeBary’s Fertilizer Ordinance 04-17 implements specific fertilizer regulations to minimize the negative environmental effects caused by the misuse of fertilizer. These cumulative effects have been observed in stormwater systems, rivers, creeks, canals, springs, and lakes. Fertilizers can cause impairment to surface waters due to their excessive nutrients and high levels of nitrogen in water within aquifers and springs.

All commercial fertilizer applicators within the incorporated and unincorporated areas of Volusia County must complete special training. They shall abide by and successfully complete the six-hour training program outlined in the Florida-friendly Best Management Practices for Protection of Water Resources by the Green Industries offered by The Florida Department of Environmental Protection through the UF Extension “Florida-Friendly Landscaping” program or an approved equivalent.

• Rainy season ban from June 1–September 30 for nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer
• No phosphorus allowed without a soil test that indicates the need
• Use only fertilizer with a total nitrogen content of at least 50% slow release
• Fertilizer-free zone, at a minimum, within 10 feet of all bodies of water, no exceptions
• Sets maximum yearly limits by grass types and application rates for fertilizer use on lawns
• Prohibits fertilizer use on new turf for 30 days
• Prohibits leaving grass clippings and fertilizer on any impervious surface (concrete or pavement)
• Prohibits fertilizing on days when heavy rain is expected, if the ground is water saturated, or during a flood watch, tropical storm, or hurricane watch or warning
• Establishes a voluntary low maintenance zone within 10 feet of all water bodies
• Exempts bona fide farm operations
• Requires professionals and institutional applicators to have training
• Establishes penalties for non-compliance

The City finds that it is in the interests of the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of DeBary and the general public for the City to amend its fertilizer regulations. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has established the Model Ordinance for Florida-Friendly Fertilizer Use on Urban Landscapes, and Volusia County has adopted a version of this Model Ordinance. The City of DeBary finds that adopting an ordinance similar to that of Volusia County will have the added benefit of encouraging a uniform county-wide approach to fertilizer regulation.