MDARD Fertilizer Program
The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD) inspects, tests, and issues licenses and registrations for fertilizer, soil conditioner, and liming materials distributed or manufactured in Michigan.
MDARD's fertilizer program regulates over 600 manufacturers and distributors of over 1.4 million tons of fertilizer, soil conditioner, and liming materials for both farm and non-farm use. Michigan farmers and residents rely on this quality assurance and consumer protection program to maximize yields and maintain a profitable farm operation. In addition, millions of state residents depend on this program to protect them from fraud when purchasing fertilizer for home and garden use.
Quick Links:
- Fertilizer District Map: Find your local inspector
- Michigan Fertilizer Product Registration List
- Michigan Fertilizer Facility Licensee List
- Fertilizer Laws:
Fertilizer License and Registration Requirements
Licensing is required for firms that have their names on the labeling or invoicing for an agricultural fertilizer manufactured or distributed in Michigan. All specialty (non-farm use) fertilizers or soil conditioners distributed in Michigan must be registered by the manufacturer or distributor.
Fertilizer License and Registration Requirements
Reporting Fertilizer Tonnage
Fertilizer manufacturers and distributors are required to file tonnage reports annually, instead of twice a year. Under this rule, the reports will cover an annual period of January 1 to December 31.
Bulk Storage
The Bulk Storage Program protects groundwater, the environment, stored products, and facility personnel by helping ensure safety of agrichemical storage facilities. It reduces contamination risks by inspecting and registering over 200 facilities annually, while providing industry standards, site planning guidance, and ongoing support through consultations and site visits.
Phosphorus Fertilizer Restrictions (turf fertilizers)
Phosphorus fertilizer applications are restricted on residential and commercial lawns in Michigan, including athletic fields and golf courses statewide. This includes applications by both homeowners and commercial applicators.
Liming Materials Program
MDARD oversees the licensing and regulation of agricultural liming materials to ensure products used to correct soil acidity are properly registered and meet required standards.
Beneficial Use 3
MDARD Beneficial Use 3 refers to the land application of specific industrial byproducts such as coal ash, pulp/paper ash, and foundry sand as fertilizers, soil conditioners, or liming materials. These materials must be applied at agronomic rates, follow Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs), and not cause environmental harm or groundwater contamination.
Fertilizer Security
MDARD plays a vital role in safeguarding the physical security, environmental stewardship, and supply-chain stability of fertilizers across Michigan. Because fertilizer is essential to crop yields but presents unique safety, environmental, and illicit-use risks, MDARD works to protect both agricultural inputs and local communities.
- Safety and Security Guidelines for the Storage and Transportation of Fertilizer Grade Ammonium Nitrate at Fertilizer Retail Facilities
- Ammonium Nitrate Security Requirements for Fertilizer Manufacturers, Distributors and Retailers
- Anhydrous Ammonia Safety and Security Practices (AASSPs) in accordance with the Anhydrous Ammonia Security Act, Public Act 417 of 2006
Fertilizer and Liming Laws and Regulations
- Act 451 of 1994, Part 85, FERTILIZERS
- Act 417 of 2006 - ANHYDROUS AMMONIA SECURITY ACT
- Regulation No. 634: Commercial Fertilizers
- Liming Materials, Act 162 of 1955
Links of Interest
- Label Requirements of Specialty and Other Bagged Fertilizers
- Western Lake Erie Basin
- Be Phosphorus Smart - MSUE Website
- Weights and Measures Information
- AOAC International
- Association of American Plant Food Control Officials/AAPFCO
- Michigan State University Extension/MSUE
- The Fertilizer Institute/TFI