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Pesticide Registration

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture manages:

  • FIFRA Section 3 Registrations
  • FIFRA Section 25(b)
  • Section 18 Emergency Exemptions
  • Section 24(c) Special Local Needs Registrations
  • Section 2(ee) Recommendations
  • Experimental Use Permits

This process ensures that all pesticides distributed in Arkansas are reviewed for safety and efficacy by the EPA.

Resources

About Pesticide Registration

Under the Arkansas Pesticide Control Act (Act 410 of 1975), all pesticides sold or distributed in Arkansas must be registered with the Department.

Definition of a Pesticide (per Arkansas law):

  • Used for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating pests
  • Functions as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant
  • Used as a spray adjuvant

Registration Process

Option 1: By Mail

Submit:

  1. DP-21 form
  2. Product label (PDF) — file name must include product name and EPA Reg. No.
  3. Submit via CD, email to [email protected], or through ALSTAR
  4. Fee:
  5. $250 for products exempt from Abandoned Pesticide Disposal (APD) fee
  6. $320 for products not exempt

Option 2: Online Registration

Step 1: Pay Fee Online

Use the Online Payment Portal

  • Search DP-21
  • Select number of products and applicable fee
  • Save the receipt — it will not be emailed

Step 2: Submit Online Form

The Department does not require Material Safety Data Sheets, EPA-stamped labels, or formulas unless specifically requested.

Special Notes

  • Submit a separate DP-21 for each company if registering products for multiple companies
  • Droplet testing is required for Quinclorac and Clomazone agricultural use formulations
  • Contact the Program Manager at (501) 225-1598 for aerial study requirements

Discontinuance of Registration

Products in discontinuance must:

  • Be registered for two years to allow product to leave the market
  • Be marked D-1 (year 1) or D-2 (year 2) on DP-21
  • Include registration fees during discontinuance
  • Alternatively, submit a letter stating no product remains in distribution

FIFRA Section 25(b) Exempt Products

Even if exempt from Section 3, all 25(b) products with pesticidal claims must be registered as pesticides.

Spray Adjuvants

Spray adjuvants must be registered and include substances such as:

  • Wetting agents
  • Spreaders
  • Stickers
  • Emulsifiers
  • Water modifiers

Restricted Use Pesticides

These pesticides may pose hazards even when used properly. The EPA or Arkansas Plant Board may restrict use. Classes include:

  • Class F – 2,4-D and related products
  • Class H – Dicamba (over 1 qt)
  • Class G – Glyphosate
  • Class I – Quinclorac

Use the Registered Pesticide Search to check classification status.

Section 2(ee) Recommendations

  • Allows for off-label use not prohibited by the label
  • Must be approved by the Department
  • Includes: reduced rates, alternate applications, tank mixes, new pests

Section 24(c) Registrations

Allows state-specific uses of a pesticide:

  • Must meet special local need
  • Requires DP-21 form and $250 fee (even for already-registered products)
  • Department will ensure:
    • No prior denial/suspension by EPA
    • Efficacy is supported
    • University of Arkansas Extension agrees with the need

Section 18 Emergency Exemptions

Provides temporary relief for pest issues with no current solutions.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • The issue is urgent and non-routine
  • No suitable registered product exists
  • There is risk of economic loss

Notice of Exemption:

Issued if EPA approves the request and includes:

  • Application rates and sites
  • Use restrictions and reporting requirements
  • Duration (usually < 1 year)
  • New exemption must be requested each season

Reporting:

Applications must be reported within 10 days using the Section 18 Application Report Form, including:

  • Applicator and farmer name/address
  • Acres treated
  • Active ingredient rate
  • Field location
  • Application date/time

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the registration fees pro-rated?

No, the laws the Plant Board operates under do not provide a provision for pro-rating registration fees.

What products have to be registered?

All products intended for preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any pest, all products intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant, or desiccant, and any product intended for use as a spray adjuvant. This includes products exempted under FIFRA Section 25 (b).

How do I know when my products have been registered?

Upon approval of the registration, the registrant will be sent a signed copy of the Application for Registration of Pesticides submitted.

Is there a late fee for re-registration?

No.

Are registration fees required for pesticides undergoing the discontinuance process?

Yes.