Florida shuts down illegal pest control operation targeting residents

Wilton Simpson Commissioner at Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Wilton Simpson Commissioner at Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
0Comments

Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has taken action against an illegal pest control sales operation. Commissioner Wilton Simpson announced the shutdown of the operation, which targeted residents through door-to-door sales tactics. The department imposed a $36,000 fine on Mira Home LLC and prohibited Grit Marketing LLC from engaging in any pest control activities or sales within the state. The companies were found to have illegally solicited over 600 pest control contracts.

According to Florida law, pest control companies must not use independent contractors for their services, ensuring proper supervision and training are provided by the company itself. Furthermore, individuals soliciting or performing pest control services must hold a valid Pest Control Identification Card issued by FDACS.

Commissioner Simpson emphasized his commitment to consumer protection, stating: “One of my top responsibilities as Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture is protecting Florida’s consumers, and that includes cracking down on illegal door-to-door sales operations and those operating outside the law.” He advised Floridians to be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics and verify licenses before signing contracts.

FDACS’ investigation revealed that more than 30 employees from Grit Marketing conducted unlicensed activities between March 3 and March 11, 2025. Mira Home was found to have improperly obtained identification cards for independent contractors through Grit Marketing.

As part of the enforcement actions, Mira Home agreed to pay the fine and comply with all relevant laws under Chapter 482 of the Florida Statutes. Grit Marketing consented to cease all regulated pest control activities in Florida.

To further protect consumers from aggressive solicitation practices, Commissioner Simpson has proposed a provision in the upcoming 2026 Florida Farm Bill (Senate Bill 290). This would allow residents to display “No Commercial Solicitation” signs at their homes and establish penalties for violators.

Floridians can verify pest control licenses or report suspicious activity by contacting FDACS at 850-617-7996. More information about Commissioner Simpson and FDACS is available at FDACS.gov.



Related

Wilton Simpson Commissioner at Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Florida court upholds enforcement of hemp THC limits, blocks recreational marijuana effort

The Fifth District Court of Appeals has upheld Florida’s enforcement of THC limits in hemp products after a recent challenge. Commissioner Wilton Simpson says this move protects consumers and blocks attempts at legalizing recreational marijuana through regulatory loopholes.

Steve Cona, President/CEO for Associated Builders and Contractors Florida Gulf Coast Chapter

Associated Builders and Contractors Florida CEO on tort reforms: ‘Florida’s legal reforms are working’

Steve Cona, president and CEO of Associated Builders and Contractors Florida Gulf Coast Chapter, said Florida’s legal reforms have stabilized insurance markets and reduced abusive lawsuits. Recent data shows lower insurance rates for consumers following these changes. Cona urges continued support for transparency measures in litigation financing.

Wilton Simpson Commissioner at Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Florida offers $10 million in grants to strengthen retail fuel supply during emergencies

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has announced $10 million in grants for strengthening the state’s retail fuel supply during emergencies. The program was introduced by Commissioner Wilton Simpson on Feb. 9, 2026.

Trending

The Weekly Newsletter

Sign-up for the Weekly Newsletter from Sunshine Sentinel.