Florida tightens regulations for those experiencing bee infestations

Category: Field Service Industry News, Pest Control

Florida recently decided to begin enforcing a law that prohibits beekeepers from eliminating or relocating live bee colonies. The law requires infestations to be removed by a certified pest control expert, and many beekeepers lack the required license to continue relocating hives that are a nuisance to residents.

In the past, the state failed to enforce the regulations, allowing beekeepers to assist homeowners troubled by the pests. Now that the government will no longer turn a blind eye to the situation, beekeepers who wish to remove hives from homes or yards will need to obtain the required certification.

Recent proposals would allow exceptions to the rule if approved. Beekeepers would need to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in removing colonies and hold insurance. They could also potentially be permitted to use household pesticides if necessary.

For now, beekeepers are out of the question for property owners seeking to have a hive removed from their residence. Pest control operators may see an increase in calls regarding bees, as they are now the only option for safe removal of the insects. Particularly busy companies may want to consider implementing the use of field services software to ease the strain of increased client demands.