Guidance for Pest Control Operator (PCO) Registration – CropLife SA

DEAR CROPLIFE SA MEMBER:

On 4 February 2025, CropLife SA in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), hosted an online training session to provide guidance on the process to register as a pest control operator (PCO) in accordance with the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act (Act 36 of 1947). Please find attached and linked to this email the following resources from this session:

• A list of frequently asked questions with corresponding answers.
• A simple decision tree to assist potential applicants with the registration process.
• An example of a PCO application form containing basic notes to guide the applicant on the information required.
• An example of a restricted agricultural remedy label.
• Presentations from CropLife SA and DALRRD, presented during the information session.
• Copy of the “Pest Control Operator regulations” of 18 February 2011. Persons who apply to become registered as PCOs must familiarize themselves with the responsibilities of PCOs, as well as the records to be kept, as stipulated in the regulations. Proof of compliance will be required during the registration renewal period. Non-compliance will result in the rejection of the PCO renewal application.

We apologise for the delay in circulating this information. All resources were first checked and signed off by DALRRD to ensure reliability and alignment. Please circulate this email to everyone who might find it of interest – this information will also be uploaded onto the CropLife SA website.

The CropLife SA team is available for any questions.