Quebec Bans Non-farm Pesticides

The province of Quebec announced in early July that it will ban the use of most

nonfarm pesticides by 2005. In a phased introduction of restrictions, Quebec will quickly ban the use of 30 specific pesticides on public lands, including parks, schools, day-care centers, and hospitals. By the beginning of 2005, the ban will extend to private and commercial properties. In announcing the policy, Quebec Environment Minister André Boisclair said that “people’s health is more important than a perfect lawn; I enjoin Quebecers to no longer use pesticides.” This policy follows a June 2001 Canadian Supreme Court ruling that allows cities to ban the use of pesticides in residential areas. Fines for violations will range from C$500 to $3,000 (US$325 to $1,960).