Lawn Fertilizer Application Control

General Regulations

Time of Application. Lawn fertilizer may not be applied when the ground is frozen or when conditions exist which will promote or create runoffs.

Fertilizer Content. No one shall apply any lawn fertilizer, liquid or granular, within the City of Elk River, which contains any amount of phosphorus, such as phosphate, except:

1. the naturally occurring phosphorus in unadulterated natural or organic fertilizing products such as yard waste compost; or (see "Exemption" below)

Impervious Surfaces and Drainage Ways. No person shall apply fertilizer to impervious surfaces, areas within drainage ditches, or waterways.

Buffer Zone. Fertilizers and pesticides shall not be applied:

1. to any established natural buffer zones;

2. below the Ordinary High Water lines as established by the Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources; or

3. within 10 feet of any wetland or water resource.

Exemption to Phosphorus Requirement.

1. Newly established or developed turf and lawn areas during first growing season; or

2. Turf and lawn areas which soil tests confirm are below phosphorus levels established by the U of M Extension Service. The fertilizer appication shall not exceed the amount of phosphorus and the appropriate rate recommended in the soil test.
   1. Phosphorus applied as lawn fertilizer shall be watered into the soil where it is immobilized and protected from loss by runoff.

   2. Any person shall notify the City at least 24 hours prior to application for the reason for using fertilizer containing phosphorus and the amount of phosphorus contained in the lawn fertilizer to be applied.

Home | Hot Topics | Events | Membership | Contacts | For Sale | Other Links | Site Map |