Tuckahoe Village Departments

New Dishwasher Detergent and Fertilizer law

The 2010 NYS Dishwasher Detergent and Nutrient Runoff Law includes provisions covering the sale and use of fertilizers containing phosphorus which become effective on January 1, 2012.

The law:

• Prohibits use of fertilizer containing phosphorus on non-agricultural lawns and turf, except where a new lawn is being established or where a soil test indicates the need for additional phosphorus.
• Prohibits application of any fertilizer for non-farm use between December 1st and April 1st.
• Restricts application of any fertilizer within 20 feet of a water body or on paved surfaces, with limited exceptions.
• Requires that retailers display phosphorus-containing fertilizers separately from nonphosphorus fertilizers and post an educational sign where the phosphorus fertilizer is displayed.

The provisions of this new law may require a change in municipal best management practices, and operating procedures. DEC encourages municipal staff to familiarize themselves with the law and plan ahead to comply.

Phosphorus causes impairments in over 100 waterbodies in New York State. These requirements will result in reducing the amount of phosphorus in stormwater runoff and improve water quality in these affected waterbodies.

For full information about the law please visit http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/67239.html.

Sincerely,
Robert M. Capowski, P.E.
Watershed Implementation Section