Types of Pesticides

The word pesticide is often misunderstood to mean only an insecticide (for insect control). Actually, the term "pesticide" refers not only to insecticides but herbicides (for weed control), rodenticides (for rodent control), fungicides (for control of plant disease fungi), miticides (for mite control), as well as wood preservatives, disinfectants, and products that control algae.

In British Columbia, pesticides are divided into 5 categories: Permit-Restricted, Restricted, Commercial, Domestic and Exempted. Domestic pesticides are intended for use by homeowners but must be sold by a certified seller, while Exempted pesticides are specific types of pesticides that may be sold or applied by non-certified persons. These include some insect and animal repellents, disinfectants, insect bait stations, pressurized pesticides and swimming pool chemicals.