What is the penalty for using a pesticide contrary to its labeling?

Using a pesticide in a manner that contradicts its labeling is considered a serious violation of California's pesticide regulations. The law is designed to ensure that pesticides are applied safely and effectively, following the guidelines provided on the product labels, which include critical information about proper use, dosage, and safety precautions.

When a pesticide applicator uses a product contrary to its labeling, they can incur significant penalties, which may include fines, suspension, or even revocation of their pesticide applicator’s license. This reflects the state's commitment to protecting public health and the environment, as improper use of pesticides can lead to contamination, harm to non-target organisms, and other negative consequences.

The other options, such as mandatory pesticide training, community service hours, or written warnings alone, do not encapsulate the full scope of penalties available for this violation. While education and awareness are critical components of responsible pesticide use, the enforcement measures are more stringent to ensure compliance and deter misuse effectively.