SB 5

This bill generally prohibits the application of fertilizer that contains

phosphorus to lawns, golf courses, and other mowed grassy areas (turf). The

prohibition does not apply to land used for agricultural production. The prohibition

also does not apply to the use of manure that is mechanically dried, ground, or

pelletized, or to a finished sewage sludge product. The bill authorizes the use of

fertilizer that contains phosphorus to establish grass during the first growing

season. The bill also authorizes the application of fertilizer containing phosphorus

to an area if a soil test shows that the soil in the area is deficient in phosphorus. The

bill prohibits the application of fertilizer, manure that is mechanically dried, ground,

or pelletized, and finished sewage sludge product to turf when the ground is frozen.

The bill also prohibits the intentional application of turf fertilizer, manure that is

mechanically dried, ground, or pelletized, and finished sewage sludge product to an

impervious surface and requires a person who spills any of these substances onto an

impervious surface to immediately remove it.

This bill prohibits the retail sale of turf fertilizer containing phosphorus unless

the fertilizer is sold for one of the purposes for which it is authorized to be used. The

bill prohibits a retailer from displaying turf fertilizer that contains phosphorus, but

authorizes a retailer to post a sign stating that turf fertilizer containing phosphorus

is available upon request for the purposes for which the bill allows it to be used.