Pest Control Licensing and Regulations in Western Australia

Understanding WA’s Pest Management Rules

Pest control is a serious business. To keep residents safe, there are rules about who can operate a pest management business and work as a pest management technician. This article explains the licenses and laws in WA.

Facts about pest control regulations in WA

The Department of Health oversees licensing and regulates the pest management industry. All pest controllers must hold a pest management technician licence issued by the Department. There are fines for unlicensed work. Proper training in pesticide safety and exams are required to get a license.

How to apply

To get a license in WA, you must submit a form to the Department of Health. Here are the steps:

1.Download the appropriate form from the DOH website www.health.wa.gov.au/Health-for/Licensing-and-industry. There are separate forms for initial and renewal.

2. Read the instructions carefully and fill out all sections of the form completely. Make sure to include:

  • Your personal details
  • Which license you are applying for
  • Details of your relevant qualifications and experience
  • A declaration that information provided is true and correct

3. Attach copies of required documents like your training certificates, photo ID, and proof of practical experience.

4. Pay the license application fee. This can be done via EFT, credit card, or cheque attached to the form. Fees are:

  • Pest technician license – $552 initial, $329 renewal
  • Timber license – $552 initial, $329 renewal
  • Fumigator license – $552 initial, $329 renewal

5. Submit the completed form and supporting documents via post or email to the DOH office.

6. If applying by post, send to PO BOX 8172
Perth BC, Western Australia 6849

7. If emailing, send to: pesticidesafety@health.wa.gov.au

8. Processing takes a minimum of 28 days. The Department may request more information.

9. Once approved, you will receive your pest control licence by post. This will be a plastic card showing the license category and expiry date.

10. Make sure to display your license prominently when doing extermination work. Renew before expiry to remain licensed.

Types of Licences

There are three main license types:

Pest Technician

This license is for general control work. To get this license you must:

  • Complete approved training courses
  • Pass exams on health and safety
  • Provide a medical certificate
  • Prove practical field experience
  • Licenses are valid for 5 years
  • Renewal requires more practice and fees for pest management licensing

Timber Pest Technician

This license is for termite and wood boring insect control. To get this license you must:

  • Complete approved courses
  • Pass exams on nuisance and treatment methods
  • Prove practical field experience
  • Licenses are valid for 5 years
  • Renewal requires more drills

Fumigator

This license is for fumigation work. To get this license you must:

  • Complete approved courses
  • Pass exams on fumigant use, health and safety
  • Prove practical field experience
  • Licenses are valid for 5 years
  • Renewal requires more practice

Exemptions from the requirement to hold a license

Some pest control work is exempt from needing a license, for rodent baiting and weed control. However, all chemicals use must follow safety laws.

Key Points To Note

  • Interstate or overseas licenses may qualify for exemption or conversion. Ask the Department for guidance.
  • Licenses must be renewed before expiry to remain valid. Late renewals incur a fee.
  • Pesticides must be applied according to product labels to avoid harm. Record keeping is required.
  • Suspected pesticide misuse must be reported to the Department immediately.
  • Fines and penalties apply for unlicensed pest control work. Safety breaches can result in license suspension or cancellation.

Conclusion

Licensing ensures a person has the right skills and knowledge. It helps keep homes and businesses safe from pests. Following the rules means avoiding large fines.