Fertilizer Ordinance

The Barrington Town Council has enacted Ordinance No. 2020-17 to conserve resources and protect our environment by regulating outdoor application of nitrogen and phosphorus-based fertilizers in order to reduce the overall amount of excess nitrogen and phosphorus entering the public waters. 

Who Is Affected? 

• Businesses and Organizations operating in Barrington
• Commercial Property
• Owners and Property Management Companies
• Homeowners, Residents and Landscape Contractors
• Houses of Worship
• Schools and Daycare Providers (public and private)
• Town of Barrington

Usage of Nitrogen and Phosphorus (Controlled Nutrients)

1) Should be organic, slow-release, water-insoluble application.
2) Only be applied to turf and other plants at the lowest rate necessary:

• Nitrogen: A single application not to exceed 0.5 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet and an annual aggregate total application not to exceed 1.0 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.
• Phosphorus: Shall not be applied unless soil test identifies phosphorus deficiency.

Do Not Apply or Deposit Fertilizer

• Between November 1st and March 31st unless specifically approved in advance by the Town Council.
• On any Impervious Surface.
• Within 24 hours before or during a rain event forecasted by the National Weather Service resulting in more than .5 inches of precipitation in a 24 hour period.
• Within 100 feet of Public Waters Resources Areas.

Exemptions

• Agriculture and horticulture uses.
• Gardens, including vegetable and flower, trees, shrubs and indoor applications including greenhouses.
• In the first growing season, establishment of new vegetation or repairing of turf following substantial damage.
• Yard waste compost or other similar materials primarily organic in nature and applied to improve physical condition of soil.