California DPR Launches New SprayDays Online System

This month, the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) is introducing a new online system, SprayDays, sharing Notices of Intent (NOI) to use a restricted use pesticide with the public. While the system will not be available to the public until March, growers and pest control advisors (PCAs) are encouraged to prepare for this change now.

SprayDays – built to meet DPR’s promise to allow a prior notification to the public of some pesticide applications – is built onto the existing CalAgPermits online system. Growers and PCAs will be required to use electronic filing unless an exemption is granted by the county agricultural commissioner. “Growers and applicators must use the CalAgPermits system for NOI submissions starting February 26, 2025. If electronic filing is not possible, they will need to obtain approval to submit a paper NOI from the County Ag Commissioner office,” explained Gabriele Ludwig, director of environmental policy at the Almond Board of California.

Transitioning to an Online System

As Ludwig explained, the new system builds on existing NOI processes, which already requires pesticide applicators to provide advance notice of restricted-use pesticide applications. SprayDays leverages the CalAgPermits program which is aimed at streamlining submissions and increasing public access to information, according to DPR.

NOIs must still be submitted at least 48 hours before a planned application. For fumigants, the advance notice deadline extends to 72 hours (Note: County Ag Commissioner offices may have their own, longer deadlines). In both cases, the process remains consistent with current requirements, though the submission method now shifts to a digital platform.

According to Ludwig, “The practical process of filing an NOI hasn’t changed significantly, but growers need to familiarize themselves with the electronic system to ensure compliance.”

Features of SprayDays

Once the information is live to the public on March 26, 2025, the system offers two main tools for the public to obtain information about NOIs.

1. Notifications: Users can sign up to receive email or text alerts for planned pesticide applications near up to 10 addresses. Notifications will include the type of pesticide and the application window – which NOI windows are good for up to four days after the application – but will not provide a specific location, just that it’s within a mile of the address the user uses.
2. Searchable Map: The system features an online map that allows users to check areas for upcoming restricted-use pesticide applications.

Considerations for Growers

The introduction of SprayDays may come with some adjustments for growers. Public access to NOI data could lead to more inquiries or objections filed with county agricultural commissioners, potentially causing delays in planned applications.

“This system allows the public to file objections more easily, which could temporarily pause an application,” Ludwig said. “Growers should account for this possibility when planning their schedules, especially for time-sensitive applications like fumigants.”

Preparing for the Change

With the launch of SprayDays, growers and applicators should:

• Review the system and understand its features by the end of March.
• Begin transitioning NOI submissions to the online platform, CalAgPermits.com, if not already using.
• Reach out to their county agricultural commissioner for guidance if electronic submissions are not feasible.

DPR has indicated that the system’s goal is to improve transparency to the public on pesticide use and maintain compliance with existing regulations. For more information or support, growers can contact their county agricultural commissioner’s office or visit DPR’s website.