06/04/2026
Beginning June 1, fertilizer restrictions go into effect to help protect the Indian River Lagoon during Florida’s rainy season. According to Section 26-108 of the City Code of Ordinances, no applicator shall apply fertilizers containing nitrogen and/or phosphorus to turf and/or landscape plants during the prohibited application period, or to saturated soils. Prohibited application period means June 1 through September 30 and/or the time period during which a flood watch or warning, or a tropical storm watch or warning, or a hurricane watch or warning is in effect for any portion of Brevard County, issued by the National Weather Service, or if heavy rain is likely.
When fertilizers are applied before heavy rain, nitrogen and phosphorus can wash off lawns, streets, driveways, and sidewalks and flow into storm drains, canals, and ultimately the Lagoon. These nutrients fuel algae blooms, reduce water clarity, lower oxygen levels, and harm seagrass, fish, manatees, and other wildlife. You can help protect the Lagoon by:
1. Avoiding fertilizer use during the ban period
2. Keeping grass clippings and yard waste out of streets and storm drain
3. Using Florida-friendly landscaping
4. Sweeping fertilizer granules back onto the lawn instead of rinsing them away
5. Choosing slow-release, Lagoon-friendly products when fertilizer is allowed again
Small actions at home make a big difference for our waterways. Thank you for doing your part to protect the Indian River Lagoon.
