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 - .

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.

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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. . 

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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