Fertilizer Summer Restrictions

Published on October 01, 2023

It’s the rainy season, Dunedin! This also means that the annual Fertilizer Summer restrictions are now in effect. According to the Pinellas County Fertilizer Ordinance, the sale and use of lawn and landscape fertilizer with nitrogen and/or phosphorous are prohibited in order to protect Pinellas County waters from harmful algae blooms from June 1st through September 30th.

This also means that no nitrogen or phosphorous may be applied to turfgrass or landscapes during the rainy season. Heavy summer rains can wash fertilizer off our lawns and into our creeks, lakes, Clearwater Harbor, and St. Joseph Sound.  

The purpose of this local ordinance is to control excessive or improper use of fertilizers on landscapes, which is a significant source of excess nutrient pollution in our local waterbodies.

Nutrient pollution is mainly composed of nitrogen and phosphorous. The nutrients feed aquatic plant growth and algae. Moreover, excessive growth of aquatic plants and algae can choke out waterways because as they use up dissolved oxygen (DO) in the water, when they start to decompose. The lack of dissolved oxygen in our waterways can lead to more fish kills and algae blooms.

Tips for Homeowners During the Rainy Season

  • If you want to fertilize your lawn, it is recommended to do it in April or early October by using a slow release product that nourishes the grass gradually over a longer period of time.
  • Alternative grass nourishments are available such as composts, soils & seed mixes, macronutrients such as potassium, sulfur, calcium and micronutrients such as iron and magnesium.
  • Keep all yard debris out of storm drains, ditches, surface waters, and roadways. Compost it, bag it, or blow it back into the yard. Yard debris is also a source of nutrient pollution.
  • Mow so that the mower shoot faces away from the hard surfaces or water.
  • Make sure your landscaper has his/her Pinellas County Landscape BMP certification.

The fertilizer restrictions are intended to safeguard our waterways, marine life, and our livelihoods. As the old saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

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