The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued new restrictions on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs). Pennsylvania pest control professionals must understand these changes to remain compliant.
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides include:
- Brodifacoum
- Bromadiolone
- Difenacoum
- Difethialone
These are more potent and longer-lasting than first-generation products.
- SGARs now restricted to certified applicators only
- Retail sales to consumers prohibited
- Agricultural use exceptions (minimum 16 lbs)
- ALL outdoor rodenticide applications must use tamper-resistant bait stations
- Stations must be anchored or secured
- Must be labeled with applicator contact information
- Regular inspection and documentation required
Following incidents of raptors (hawks, owls) dying from secondary poisoning:
- Mandatory monitoring for non-target exposure
- Placement restrictions near natural areas
- Alternative methods encouraged as first-line defense
Enhanced documentation required:
- Placement locations (GPS coordinates recommended)
- Bait type and amount used
- Inspection dates and findings
- Any non-target exposure incidents
- Chlorophacinone
- Diphacinone
- Warfarin
(Less potent but require multiple feedings)
- Snap traps
- Live traps
- Exclusion (sealing entry points)
- Habitat modification
The EPA encourages IPM, using rodenticides only when:
- Non-chemical methods have failed
- Significant health/safety risk exists
- Monitoring confirms ongoing activity
- Existing inventory: Use by June 1, 2025
- All new purchases: Must meet new requirements
- Training: Complete by March 31, 2025
PA Department of Agriculture will conduct spot checks. Violations can result in:
- Fines up to $5,000
- License suspension
- Mandatory retraining
PestPro Hub's Certification Study Center offers EPA-compliant courses on rodent management and SGAR alternatives.
*Protect wildlife, stay compliant, and maintain effective rodent control!*
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