Florida's SB 290: New Rules for Landscapers, Pest Control, and Contractors Take Effect
A new law in Florida, SB 290, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis and effective from July 1, 2026, introduces significant changes for landscapers, pest control operators, and contractors. The legislation aims to increase penalties for unlicensed work and imposes new restrictions on door-to-door solicitations. Landscapers and service providers are now prohibited from knocking on doors of residences displaying "No Solicitation" signs. Violators will face an initial fine of $500, with subsequent offenses escalating to a second-degree misdemeanor, potentially leading to criminal charges.
The law also strengthens regulations for pest control businesses. Unlicensed operators now face administrative fines of up to $10,000, a doubling of the previous $5,000 limit. Additionally, companies must obtain a license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, employ a full-time certified operator, and maintain insurance policies with $1 million coverage for personal injury and $1 million for property damage.
SB 290 also includes provisions benefiting landscapers by preventing counties and municipalities from banning or penalizing the use of gasoline-powered landscaping equipment, such as leaf blowers and chainsaws. Local authorities can encourage electric tools but cannot restrict or fine the use of combustion engines. Furthermore, contractors are now required to pay subcontractors and suppliers within 30 business days of receiving project payment. Failure to comply can result in misdemeanor charges and suspension from the state's list of suspended vendors.
Florida's SB 290 reflects a complex interplay between regulatory oversight, industry lobbying, and consumer protection. The law's provisions, particularly the increased fines for unlicensed pest control operators and stricter payment timelines for contractors, suggest an effort to professionalize these sectors and mitigate risks associated with unqualified or unreliable service providers. The prohibition on door-to-door solicitation for certain services, coupled with penalties for violations, aims to balance business access with homeowner privacy rights. The preemption of local bans on gasoline-powered landscaping equipment highlights a state-level intervention to support an industry's operational preferences, potentially prioritizing economic continuity over localized environmental concerns. This legislative approach may foster greater accountability within these industries, but it also raises questions about the enforcement mechanisms and the potential impact on small businesses navigating these new compliance requirements.
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