The California Department of Pesticide Regulation announced on August 10, 2026 that all manufacturers of pesticide products containing paraquat-dichloride have voluntarily cancelled their product registrations in the state. The last registrant cancelled on August 6, 2026, completing a phase-out that began when companies started voluntarily cancelling registrations in April.
DPR opened a reevaluation of paraquat in November 2024 under Food & Agricultural Code section 14086 and required registrants to submit new scientific data by June 5, 2026 to address gaps in the human health toxicology database. Rather than submit that data, registrants chose to cancel instead.
Who it hits
- Growers and PCAs statewide who currently use paraquat for weed control, and DPR-licensed pesticide dealers holding existing inventory.
- Anyone relying on paraquat as a burndown or preplant herbicide will need to plan a transition to alternative products or practices.
Key dates
- DPR initiated the paraquat reevaluation under FAC section 14086.
- Deadline DPR set for registrants to submit new scientific data on paraquat; registrants did not comply and instead pursued cancellation.
- Last paraquat registrant voluntarily cancelled its registration in California.
- Application period closes for DPR’s 2027 Sustainable Pest Management Grants, which prioritize alternatives to paraquat and other weed management projects.
What to do now
- Confirm with your dealer or distributor how much paraquat inventory remains available and its cancellation effective date, since DPR-licensed dealers may possess and sell voluntarily cancelled products for up to two years after that date.
- Continue following all label directions and use requirements for any paraquat product used or sold during the sell-through window.
- Begin evaluating alternative weed management approaches now rather than waiting for the sell-through window to close.
- Consider applying for DPR’s 2027 SPM Grants program before the September 1, 2026 deadline if pursuing research or outreach on paraquat alternatives.
Source: DPR News Release, August 10, 2026. This summary is provided for general information and is not legal advice.