FL S0604

Adds legislative finding that best management practices for commercial fertilizer application to urban landscapes are critical to protecting water quality in Florida.

Requires any person applying commercial fertilizer to urban landscapes to be certified beginning January 1, 2014, and mandates they follow best management practices established by the Department of Environmental Protection.

Exempts certified persons from local government ordinances addressing fertilization of urban turfs, lawns, and landscapes.

Changes the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services authority from discretionary to mandatory regarding sharing certification status information with other governmental agencies and encourages creation of an online database of certified persons.

Grants the department enforcement authority over certified persons with penalties, fines, and administrative actions consistent with state law.