Fertilizer restrictions begin June 1 in Cape Coral
The City of Cape Coral’s annual restriction on the use of fertilizers during the summer months begins June 1. The City’s fertilizer ordinance was adopted in 2010 and helps reduce the excess nutrients that can be produced by fertilizer runoff. These excess nutrients can impact the city’s canals and surrounding waters, leading to algal blooms and fish kills.
The regulations in the ordinance apply to private citizens and commercial applicators. Here are the key points of the fertilizer ordinance:
No fertilizer use is permitted between June 1 and September 30.
No fertilizer use is allowed if any kind of storm watch or warning is in effect.
No fertilizer can be used within 10 feet of a body of water measured from the top of a seawall.
At least 50 percent of the nitrogen must be in slow-release form.
No grass clippings or vegetative debris may be swept or blown into stormwater drains, conveyances, bodies of water, sidewalks or roadways.
Certain exemptions are not affected by the above requirements.
More information is available on the Environmental Resources web page under Public Works. The Public Works section can be accessed via the main portal page: www.capecoral.net. Public Works is under the “Departments” tab at the top. You also can contact the City’s Environmental Resources Section at (239) 574-0745.
Source: City of Cape Coral