What is a characteristic of general use pesticides?

General use pesticides are defined as those that can be purchased and applied by the general public without the need for special licensing or certification. This characteristic is essential because it allows homeowners and non-professionals to manage pest problems in a straightforward manner without needing extensive training or formal education in pest control.

These pesticides typically have lower toxicity levels compared to restricted-use pesticides, meaning they pose less risk to human health and the environment when used according to label instructions. Because of this, general use pesticides can be widely available at retail outlets, making them accessible for consumers who wish to handle their pest control needs independently. Other options, such as requiring certification or special licensing, pertain instead to restricted-use pesticides, which are subject to additional regulations due to their potential risks. Storing pesticides in a locked facility is typically a safety measure for all pesticides but is not specifically a defining characteristic of general use types.