The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) has reported an increase in complaints about unlicensed individuals soliciting pest control services door-to-door. The GDA’s Structural Pest Division, which oversees pest control licensing across the state, noted that 175 violations involving unlicensed individuals have been identified this year.
State law requires anyone offering or performing pest control services to hold a valid Certified Operator’s License or Registered Employee License issued by the GDA. Fines for violations can reach up to $10,000, depending on the severity of the offense.
“Hiring a licensed pest control company isn’t just a matter of legality—it’s a matter of safety,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper. “Unlicensed operators likely do not have the proper training or oversight to safely handle chemicals or pests, and we encourage all Georgians to ask for proof of licensure from any individual soliciting pest control services door-to-door.”
The department urges consumers to request proof of a valid license before allowing any pest control work to begin. Licensed individuals are required by law to carry and present their state-issued Registered Employee License upon request.
If a salesperson cannot provide proof of licensure, residents are encouraged to report the incident through the GDA’s online form at https://agr.georgia.gov/reporting-unlicensed-operators-structural-pest.
Consumers can also verify licenses and find more information about pest control regulations at https://agr.georgia.gov/structural-pest-control.
