Structural pest control

The law gives registered pest-control companies a short, structured way to use entry-level workers while their Branch 2 and Branch 3 applicator licenses are pending. It retains training, supervision, recordkeeping, and pesticide restrictions.

What the law does ​

• Starting January 1, 2028, authorizes eligible unlicensed applicants for Branch 2 and Branch 3 applicator examinations to apply covered pesticides outdoors for up to 60 days after board approval.
• Requires a complete examination application and at least 80 hours of documented, in-person pesticide-application training under direct supervision.
• Limits work to exterior areas and requires supervision by a licensed operator or field representative who is onsite or immediately available through audio and video communication.
• Ends the authorization upon license issuance, application denial, exam failure, or the end of 60 days, whichever comes first, and bars renewal or reuse.
• Requires the company and supervising licensee to keep training and compliance records for at least three years and provide them on request.
• Does not change restrictions on federal restricted-use pesticides or California restricted materials.

Who it affects ​

• Registered structural pest-control companies and their licensed operators and field representatives.
• Unlicensed Branch 2 and Branch 3 applicator-exam applicants.
• The Structural Pest Control Board, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, and county agricultural commissioners that may review required records.