Pesticides and biocides

Care when using pesticides and biocides

Guide

You must not use pesticides and biocides in or near water unless they are specifically approved for that use - find a register of approved plant protection products.

If you are planning to use a herbicide in or near to water, you must contact the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) Water Management Unit on Tel 0300 200 7850.

Rules for aerial application of herbicides and biocides

To apply pesticides from aircraft (aerial spraying) must have a permit, and permission will only be granted in limited circumstances. The application of pesticides by drone is considered to be aerial spraying and so is also subject to the permitting arrangements. Permits are issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on behalf of the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA)

Find more information on protected areas in NI.

Before you apply a pesticide by aerial application, you should also notify:

  • local beekeeper groups, at least 48 hours before application
  • the local council, 24 to 48 hours before application
  • occupants or owners of property within 25 metres of the area to be treated, 24 to 48 hours before application
  • the person in charge of any school, hospital or other institution within 150 metres of the flight path, 24 to 48 hours before application