Filing a Fertilizer Tip or Complaint in Indiana
The Office of Indiana State Chemist (OISC) is responsible for administering and enforcing Indiana's fertilizer laws and regulations.
These laws require proper certification and licensing for certain users of fertilizers and pesticides. They also govern the safe storage, handling, and application of these materials to protect public health and the environment.
How to File a Tip or Complaint
If you suspect a violation of Indiana's fertilizer laws, you can file a tip or complaint with OISC at no cost. Complaints may be submitted:
- Call the Complaint Intake Officer at 765-637-6678
- Online
Once submitted, an OISC intake officer will contact you (unless submitted anonymously) to gather more details and determine whether an investigation is necessary. If your tip or complaint is accepted, it will be assigned a case number and investigator.
Common Types of Fertilizer Complaints
Some of the most frequently reported issues include:
- Improper field storage (staging) of fertilizer or manure
- Improper application of fertilizer or manure on agricultural land
What to Expect After Filing a Complaint
- Human health-related cases are prioritized. Other complaints may take up to five business days for an investigator to initiate contact.
- The investigator may arrange a site visit based on the date of the incident and the type of evidence needed.
- Evidence may include:
- Witness statements
- Application or inspection records
- Invoices or contracts
- Photographs and maps
- Environmental samples (for lab or visual analysis)
- Weather data
- The investigator will compile findings into a pre-decisional summary for review by OISC’s compliance officer.
- If no violation is found, both the complainant (if known) and the subject of the investigation will be notified in writing.
- If a violation is documented, the alleged violator will receive written notification of the infraction and proposed enforcement action.
- Following due process (including appeals), both parties will receive final written notification. Note: Investigations can take eight months or more, depending on complexity and workload.
- All investigations are documented and archived in OISC’s central case management system. Finalized case files become public records and can be accessed at: OISC Public Records Portal
- OISC does not handle compensation or restitution. If a violation is confirmed, it is your responsibility to determine how to pursue damages, whether through:
- Direct negotiation with the responsible party
- Insurance claims
- Civil legal proceedings
Accessing Public Investigation Records
Completed fertilizer case investigations conducted within the past five years are accessible from our Case Management Application.