How can we file for a temporary restraining order against pesticide spraying?

Full question:

Without knowing exactly which entity is responsible, but having been told that the USDA is conducting an insect eradication program (this spraying over a one year period of time without notification) for a fruit fly. How do we file the appropriate forms to gain a temporary restraining order against this activity which has hurt our health, our landscape, and our livelihood. I have both physical material and photography to back up my allegations. This work has been done in the wee hours after 1:00 am. I was told that this kind of activity runs on a chain of command basis. A cooperative contract so to speak. We are suffering. Both adults and young people have been diagnosed with conditions related to human exposure to Organophosphate pesticides plus GMO yeast, Plus various fungal elements used as mediators. I really do need to know how to proceed now.

Answer:

In non-emergency situations, you should report pesticide complaints to your County Agricultural Commissioner, who is responsible for local pesticide use enforcement. You can find their contact information online through the California Department of Food and Agriculture or by calling (1-87PestLine). This call is free and connects you directly to the Commissioner’s office. For additional information on filing a complaint, refer to the DPR handout (PDF, 557 kb) available online. If you cannot reach your County Department of Agriculture or feel your complaint was not adequately addressed, ask to speak directly to your County Agricultural Commissioner. Alternatively, you can contact the Department of Pesticide Regulation at or via email at If your complaint involves a specific person or business that applied a pesticide, you can also reach out to the County Agricultural Commissioner for assistance. If the applicator holds a DPR license, you may call DPR’s Licensing and Certification Unit at or email them for further inquiries.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

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The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) is enforced primarily by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) under the USDA. Additionally, the Public Health Service (PHS) oversees policies related to animal research and welfare, particularly in federally funded research. These agencies ensure compliance with regulations designed to protect animals used in research and other settings.