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Citrus County updates fertilizer rules to limit runoff into springs and coastal waters
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Summary
A Citrus County staff member said, "We're fortunate to live in a place known for its beautiful springs, rivers, and coastal waters," and announced an update to the county's fertilizer ordinance aimed at keeping nutrients on lawns but out of waterways.
A Citrus County staff member said, "We're fortunate to live in a place known for its beautiful springs, rivers, and coastal waters," and announced an update to the county's fertilizer ordinance aimed at keeping nutrients on lawns but out of waterways.
The Citrus County Board of County Commissioners updated the ordinance to restrict fertilizer application to April and May in the spring and October in the fall, set a prohibition on applying fertilizer within 25 feet of any body of water, seawall or embankment, and recommend using no more than 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet each year. The county also recommends products with at least 65% slow-release nitrogen and says phosphorus should be added only if a soil test shows it is needed.
Why it matters: Nitrogen and phosphorus in runoff can harm springs, rivers and coastal waters. County officials framed the ordinance changes as steps to reduce nutrient runoff by aligning fertilizer use with plant uptake, avoiding applications during winter dormancy and heavy summer rains, and keeping products away from sensitive shorelines.
Details of the update include: - Seasonal application windows: fertilizer application is allowed in April and May and again in October; applications during winter dormancy, the rainy summer season, and immediately before major storms are discouraged to reduce runoff. - Buffer zones: fertilizer application is prohibited within 25 feet of any body of water, seawall or embankment. - Rate limits and product guidance: no more than 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per year; choose products with at least 65% slow-release nitrogen; add phosphorus only after a soil test indicates a need. - Outreach: reminder signs will be posted at local retail stores to help consumers pick products appropriate for the new rules.
The transcript announces the ordinance change but does not provide an ordinance number, vote tally, enforcement details or an effective date. The county did not specify who will enforce the rule, what penalties (if any) will apply for violations, or when the rules take effect.
