Florida2026Vetoed
HB1245
Rules for Using Biosolids as Fertilizer
Last scannedAug 24, 2026, 10:35 AM
In one sentence
This law limits how much bulk Class AA biosolid fertilizer can be put on land to the amount plants need, requires site owners to keep records of applications, and asks the University of Florida to publish recommended usage rates.
What it does
- Limits the application of bulk Class AA biosolids fertilizer and compost products so it does not exceed the appropriate agronomic rate needed for plant growth.
- Prohibits using bulk biosolids in a way that counts as disposal rather than beneficial reuse, such as when nutrients cannot be taken up by crops during the growing season.
- Requires land owners or operators to keep records of biosolid applications for at least five years and share them with the Department of Environmental Protection if asked.
- Asks the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences to publish recommended application rates every two years, starting on or before November 1, 2027.
- Sets rules that Class AA biosolids fertilizer products must meet before they can be marketed or distributed for agricultural land application.
Who it affects
- Owners or operators of land where bulk biosolid fertilizer is applied
- Companies or people who distribute or market Class AA biosolids products
- The Department of Environmental Protection, which will review records and create new rules
- The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences
Limits and unknowns
- The recordkeeping rules do not apply to Class AA biosolids with a moisture content of 25 percent or less if they stay in a stable, solid form.
- Specific details about marketing and distribution will be created later by the Department of Environmental Protection through rulemaking.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Biosolids
- Treated sewage sludge that is used as fertilizer or soil conditioner.
- Agronomic rate
- The amount of nutrients applied to land based on what plants need, considering soil conditions and other factors like groundwater protection.
- Class AA biosolids
- A specific category of treated biosolids that meets high quality standards for reuse.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
Biosolids Management
Official activity
Bill history
- Vetoed by Governor