Wisconsin Pesticide Record Keeping & Compliance

Wisconsin regulates commercial pesticide application through DATCP. Lawn care operators need DATCP certification and a business license, must post treated lawns, honor the landscape registry's advance-notice rules, and keep complete application records.

Published July 31, 2026 · Last reviewed July 31, 2026

Record keeping in Wisconsin

Retention: 2 years. Wisconsin commercial applicators must keep pesticide application records for at least two years under DATCP's pesticide rules (ATCP 29). Records include the date, the treated site, the product and EPA registration number, the rate and total amount, and the certified applicator who made or supervised the application.

Licensing: Commercial Applicator Certification & License, administered by Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).

Notification & posting rules

Wisconsin's landscape pesticide registry lets residents sign up for advance notice of nearby landscape applications, and commercial lawn applications require posting signs at the time of application.

Frequently asked questions

How long must pesticide records be kept in Wisconsin?

At least two years for commercial applications under ATCP 29. Records should capture the site, date, product and EPA registration number, rate and amount, and the certified applicator.

What is Wisconsin's landscape pesticide registry?

A DATCP-run registry of residents who want advance notice of landscape pesticide applications near their property. Commercial applicators must check it and notify registered neighbors before treating nearby sites.

Who certifies pesticide applicators in Wisconsin?

DATCP certifies commercial applicators and licenses the individuals and businesses applying pesticides for hire.

Educational summary, not legal advice — verify current requirements with Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).

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