ALACHUA COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Alachua County’s summer fertilizer ban goes into effect today, July 1, 2026, and will remain in place through Feb. 28, 2027.
The ban, in short, says fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorous are prohibited during this period. The Sunshine State’s summer weather pattern generally calls for rain, which means increased runoff into stormwater systems, creeks, lakes and the aquifer.
“Fertilizer applied during the rainy season and the cooler months is often not absorbed by plants and instead washes into our waterways,” said Senior Environmental Specialist Luke Sekula in an announcement. “By following these guidelines, residents can play a direct role in protecting Alachua County’s natural resources.”
Key provisions of the Alachua County Fertilizer Ordinance include:
- Fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorus may not be applied from July 1 through Feb. 28.
- The ban does not apply to vegetable gardens and fruit trees.
- Phosphorus is prohibited year-round unless a soil or tissue test confirms a deficiency.
- Fertilizer may not be applied when soils are saturated, before heavy rainfall, or within 30 days of seeding or sodding.
- Fertilizer must not be applied within 10 feet of a waterbody (or 3 feet if a deflector shield is used).
- Any fertilizer spilled on sidewalks, driveways, or streets must be immediately cleaned up and not washed into storm drains.
According to data collected by Alachua County agencies, 68 percent of residents have gone completely fertilizer-free.
More information about the fertilizer ordinance, including best practices and the opportunity to take the Fertilizer-Free Yard Pledge, is available here.