Fertilizers sold in Canada are mainly regulated at the federal level by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). While most provinces do not require a separate fertilizer registration, there are a few provincial programs companies should be aware of.

Ontario

Ontario’s Hazardous and Special Products Program covers certain fertilizer products. However, fertilizers sold for commercial or agricultural use are excluded. This means most agricultural fertilizer companies are not required to register or report through this program.

Quebec

Quebec has a recycling program for agricultural products and packaging. Depending on the type of packaging being supplied, companies may be responsible for helping fund or manage its collection and recycling. This can include certain fertilizer bags, containers, drums and totes.

Companies can usually meet these requirements by participating in the program operated by Cleanfarms, known as AgriRÉCUP in Quebec.

Manitoba

Manitoba also has a recycling program for certain agricultural packaging. Companies supplying fertilizer containers, drums, totes or other covered packaging may need to join an approved stewardship program, such as the one operated by Cleanfarms.

What About the Other Provinces?

The other provinces generally do not have additional fertilizer registration requirements. However, CFIA requirements still apply across Canada, and voluntary recycling programs may be available for fertilizer containers and packaging.

Because provincial programs can change, it is always a good idea to confirm the requirements before introducing a fertilizer product into a new province.