New Regulations Effective January 1, 2026

The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) has finalized two new regulations that take effect on January 1, 2026.

Restrictions on 1,3-Dichloropropene (1,3-D) to Protect Occupational Bystanders

New regulations, developed jointly and mutually by DPR and the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), will restrict the use of the pesticide 1,3-D to address cancer risks to occupational bystanders, including farmworkers. The new regulations establish buffer zones and require ongoing evaluation of potential exposure risks. The regulations build on recent protections for residential bystanders that went into effect in January 2024.

More information on 1,3-D use restrictions and reduction in emissions: DPR and OEHHA to Advance Regulations to Restrict 1,3-D Use in California

Pesticide Use Near Schoolsites

New regulations update DPR’s requirements for pesticide applications near schoolsites to implement Assembly Bill 1864 (2024). For applications within ¼ mile of a schoolsite the regulations now require separate site identification numbers for pesticide use reporting along with the inclusion of application method details in permits and reports. The definition of “schoolsite” will expand to include private schools (K–12) serving six or more students on December 31, 2026. These reporting requirements build on existing restrictions for pesticide use near schoolsites.

More information on pesticide use near schools: Pesticide Applications Near Schools and Child Care Facilities