Why restrict all pesticides?

Pesticides (chemical and bio) can:

• Persist in soil, water and air;
• Affect non-target species, including pollinators and beneficial insects;
• Accumulate through repeated applications;
• Enter the body through skin contact, inhalation or ingestion.

Certain populations — children, seniors, pregnant women, pets and individuals with compromised immune systems — may be more vulnerable to exposure.

The Town’s approach prioritizes prevention and soil health over repeated chemical intervention.

What remains strictly prohibited?

The by-law prohibits:

• Pesticides (herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, etc.)
• Neonicotinoids;
• Products not registered by Health Canada;
• Application near water bodies and wetlands within prescribed buffer zones;
• Application during tree flowering periods;
• Application near schools, daycares, parks and seniors’ residences (except in very specific authorized cases);
• Synthetic fertilizers.

(See Section 4 of By-law 1106.)

Are any uses allowed without a permit?

Yes. Section 5.1 of the by-law outlines specific exceptions that do not require a temporary permit, including:

• Tree trunk injections against invasive species (e.g. emerald ash borer);
• Destruction of a wasp nest (localized treatment only);
• Rodent control using sealed bait boxes;
• Pool and drinking water treatment;
• Government public health interventions.

Lawn care (cosmetic use)

Using pesticides for cosmetic lawn purposes (e.g. dandelions) is not permitted.

A healthy lawn does not need to be composed solely of grass. Clover, mixed turf and adapted groundcovers are encouraged and improve soil resilience.

Fertilizers: What is allowed?

Synthetic fertilizers are prohibited.

Permitted and encouraged products include:

• Compost;
• Wood chips;
• Soil amendments;
• Humic acids;
• Biological soil enhancers;
• Other soil-supporting supplements as defined in the by-law.

What is the difference between a synthetic fertilizer and other soil products?

A synthetic fertilizer typically contains manufactured chemical nutrients designed to stimulate rapid plant growth. These products often promote short-term visual results but do not improve long-term soil health.

In contrast, soil amendments and compost improve soil structure and biological activity, strengthening plants naturally and reducing dependency on inputs.

Important: What should I look for on labels?

Residents must carefully review product labels and active ingredients.

Chelated iron is not authorized under the by-law. This ingredient is commonly found in lawn weed-control products.

Many lawn care companies apply products as mixtures (“tank mixes”). Even if a product is described as “natural” or “low-impact,” you must verify the full list of active ingredients.

If you are uncertain whether a product is permitted, contact the Environment Department before application. We will be happy to assist you.

Can I hire a lawn treatment company?

Yes, but the company must:

• Hold a valid annual registration certificate issued by the Town;
• Hold required provincial permits (Classes 1–4, where applicable);
• Install proper signage and provide advance notice when treatment occurs.
• To avoid receiving a notice of infraction, homeowners must confirm that their lawn care company is registered with the Town.

Note: Companies that do not apply products (e.g., lawn mowing) are not required to be registered.

What if my tree has fungus?

Tree health issues should be assessed first.

Some trunk injections targeting invasive species do not require a temporary permit (Section 5.1).

Other treatments may require authorization depending on the product and application method.

Contact the Environment Department before proceeding. 

What if I have white grubs?

White grubs can often be managed through preventive lawn practices such as:

• Encouraging biodiversity in turf;
• Maintaining proper mowing height;
• Aerating compacted soil;
• Improving soil structure.

If an infestation is confirmed and preventive methods have failed, specific low-risk products may be authorized through a temporary permit process (Section 5.2).

What about wasp nests?

The localized destruction of a wasp nest does not require a temporary permit.

Broad preventive spraying is not authorized.

Invasive plant species?

Mechanical removal and cultural control methods must be attempted first.

If these methods prove ineffective, a temporary permit may be issued for targeted treatment under strict conditions.

A temporary permit may be issued when:

1. An infestation or hazard is confirmed by the competent authority;
2. Integrated pest management practices have been attempted;
3. Non-chemical alternatives have been exhausted or deemed ineffective.

The permit:

• Is valid for 10 business days;
• Applies only to the product and location specified;
• Requires visible posting at least 48 hours before application;
• Requires neighbour notification;
• Restricts application to weekdays during municipal office hours;
• Prohibits application under certain weather conditions;
• Requires signage to remain in place for at least 72 hours after treatment.

Each permit is evaluated case by case.

Contact:
Environment Department
environnement@baie-durfe.qc.ca

Because precision prevents loopholes.

If important situations are not clearly defined, interpretations vary and enforcement becomes inconsistent.

A detailed by-law:

• Ensures fairness;
• Protects residents;
• Sets clear expectations for commercial applicators;
• Prevents circumvention through vague interpretation;
• Provides enforceable standards.

Healthy soil is the foundation of resilient landscaping.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Choose plants adapted to site conditions;
• Encourage biodiversity in lawns;
• Mow at a height of 7.5 to 10 cm;
• Leave grass clippings on the lawn;
• Water deeply and less frequently;
• Aerate compacted soil;
• Apply compost annually;
• Shred leaves in autumn rather than bagging them.

Strong root systems reduce vulnerability to pests and disease.

See below the list of contractors registered with the Town:
 

Homeowners are responsible for ensuring their contractor complies with the by-law.

To avoid notices of infraction:

• Confirm the company is registered;
• Confirm required permits are obtained;
• Confirm proper signage and notification are provided.

If you are unsure, contact the Environment Department before work is carried out.