Are you wondering if starting a lawn and ornamental pest control business in Florida is worth it? As homeowners and lawn enthusiasts continue to desire beautiful and healthy lawns, the need to use pesticides has continued to grow. As a result, pest management businesses are booming each day in Florida. This article covers the most critical things you must learn before starting this business in the region. Keep reading.
To start a lawn and ornamental pest control business in Florida, you must first determine the services you’ll be providing. After that, get the required training and education credits in the field. With this training, you can then apply for the certification examination from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Once you get the certification, create a business plan, start marketing your business, and obtain the necessary equipment for your enterprise.
How to Start a Pest Control Business in Florida
Before you start a pest control business in Florida, you must meet a set of requirements. They are as follows;
1. Determine the services you’ll provide
Identify your ideal customers for this business to decide on the services you’ll be offering. Instead of providing general fumigation services, it’s good to specialize in one category, like rodent control, trapping, and nest removal.
2. Get trained
Now that you know the services you’ll be providing, complete an accredited training program in that field.
3. Certification
Once you complete your training, apply for the certification exam, as it is required for any business in Florida. If you pass the examination, you’ll get a valid certification from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
4. Create a business plan
After getting the certification, you’re ready to set up a pest control business! So, create a business plan outlining your business goals, financial projections, target market, prices for your services, and marketing strategy. This document will help you if you need financing from the bank or investors.
5. Market your business
Start marketing your pest control business through print advertisements, word of mouth, and online directories. You can also join professional organizations like National Pest Management Association and Florida Pest Management Association, which offer networking opportunities.
6. Obtain the necessary equipment for your business
Next, look for your business’s required equipment and supplies, like pest control products. You can finally open doors to a flourishing Florida lawn and ornamental pest control business!
Florida Pest Control Business License Application
Before offering pest control services, you must obtain a lawn and ornamental pest control license in Florida. You can acquire this license from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS).
Before you get this license, you must employ a Florida-certified operator to direct your pest control operations. This operator, for instance, Times Up Fumigation, must have certification in either of the following categories:
- Fumigation
- General Household Pest and Rodent Control,
- Lawn and Ornamental Pest Control
- Termite and Other Wood-Destroying Organisms Control
You must also pass the FDACS written examination and be over 18 years to qualify to get this business license. To qualify for this examination, you need education in this pest control category and experience in the same field.
Once you get this certification, you can apply for a pest control business license by paying a $300 fee. After that, continue with the application for a pest control employee identification card by paying $10 for each employee’s card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do you need a pesticide license in Florida?
A: To start a pest control business in Florida, you must have a pesticide license. You can obtain this license from FDACS or the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The same applies if you want to use any restricted pesticides in outdoor areas in this region.
Q: How much does a state-certified termite and pest control technician make in Florida?
A: The average pay for a certified termite and pest control technician in Florida is about $38,000 annually. Their salaries vary between $19,000 and $64,500 depending on experience, skills, bonuses, employer, and tips.
Final Words
Starting a lawn and ornamental pest control company in Florida is a great idea. Remember, all homeowners in this region take pride in achieving a beautiful pest-free property. But before you start this business, you must learn a few things.
First, you must determine your services and get the required training and education credits in the field. After that, apply for the certification examination from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Once you get the certification, create a business plan, start marketing your business, and obtain the necessary equipment for your enterprise.
