Department of Agriculture Seeks Businesses in South Central Pennsylvania for Spotted Lantern Permit Compliance

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – The spotted fly compliance and enforcement team will conduct spotted fly permit audits and inspection records for businesses in Cumberland and York counties starting October 25.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture website, spotted fly permits (SLFs) are required for businesses and organizations that work in SLF quarantine areas and move regulated items such as vehicles or products to inside or outside a quarantine area.

In Midstate, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry and York counties all have ongoing SLF quarantines in place.

Businesses operating or doing business in quarantined counties must obtain a free SLF permit, and those who violate permit requirements can receive fines of up to $ 300 per violation plus associated court costs. . This Department of Agriculture web page offers some examples of businesses that may or may not need to obtain permits.

In July, the department announced it would begin soliciting quarantined counties in the state to ensure that companies “are doing their part to slow the spread” of spotted lanterns, according to a press release from the department.

The most recent solicitation included 100 site visits that resulted in the issuance of 58 notices of non-compliance. Businesses that receive notices of non-compliance have 30 days before they are subject to fines.

Agriculture Department canvassers will always show their Commonwealth ID card and ask to see proof of permits in addition to inspection and training records, the press release noted.

The ministry’s spotted fly business toolkit has more information on organizations that need permits and how businesses can prevent the spread of invasive species.