The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form is a crucial document designed to help individuals moving from gypsy moth quarantine areas to non-quarantine areas. It outlines the legal requirement to inspect outdoor household items for gypsy moth life stages and ensures that potential infestations are addressed before relocation. Completing this checklist not only keeps your new neighborhood safe but also helps you avoid potential penalties.
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The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form serves as a crucial tool for individuals preparing to move from areas affected by gypsy moth quarantines to non-quarantine regions. This form outlines specific legal requirements designed to prevent the spread of this destructive pest, which poses a significant threat to over 300 types of trees and shrubs. Before relocating, residents must conduct a thorough inspection of their outdoor household items, ensuring that all life stages of the gypsy moth are removed. Failure to comply with these inspection mandates may result in penalties, underscoring the importance of adherence to the law. The checklist provides a user-friendly self-inspection guide, detailing the steps necessary to identify and eliminate gypsy moth egg masses and other life stages from various outdoor items, such as patio furniture, lawn equipment, and vehicles. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of retaining a copy of the completed checklist during the move, as it serves as an official certificate that satisfies the requirements of non-infested states. For those unsure of their quarantine status, resources are available online to assist in determining if inspection is necessary. This proactive approach not only protects individual property but also safeguards the surrounding environment from the potential devastation caused by gypsy moth infestations.
USDA
-United States Department of Agriculture
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IT’S THE LAW: BEFORE MOVING, CHECK FOR THE SPONGY MOTH
What Does the Law Require?
If you are moving from a spongy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area, you must inspect your outdoor house- hold items for the spongy moth and remove all life stages of this destructive insect before you move. You may face penalties if you are required to inspect but fail to do so. Fortunately, this inspection is easy to do, and you will protect your new neighborhood from a voracious leaf eater that can attack over 300 kinds of trees and shrubs.
How Do I Know if I Live in a Spongy Moth Quarantine Area?
Visit www.YourMoveSpongyMothFree.com and click on the U.S. map to find out if you live in a quarantine area. If you do, you will need to inspect your household goods for spongy moth if you’re moving to a non-quarantine area. If you do not live in a quarantine area, this law does not apply to you.
I Live in a Quarantine Area and Am Moving to a Non-Quarantine Area. How Do I Meet This Legal Requirement?
1)Use the self-inspection checklist on the back of this flyer or hire a qualified certified applicator to inspect your outdoor household articles. If you are moving between April and
August, you should complete the inspection on moving
day, if possible. If you cannot complete the inspection on moving day, you must protect the items from the possibility of infestation by sealing them under a tarp, keeping them indoors, or in a closed moving truck.
For self-inspection, follow these steps:
Carefully inspect all surfaces and crevices of your outdoor household articles such as patio furniture, lawn equipment, toys, grills, trailers, and vehicles for spongy moth egg masses.
Remove and destroy any egg masses you find. Scrape them off with a putty knife, stiff brush, or similar hand tool. Dispose of egg masses and other life stages in a container of hot, soapy water, or place them in a plastic bag, seal it, and set it in the sun.
Check each item off on your checklist as you go, and complete the requested information.
If a qualified, certified applicator performs the inspection, be sure you get a copy of the completed, signed checklist.
2)During your move, keep a copy of the completed checklist in the vehicle moving the goods in case a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or State official requests it at any point during your trip. If you are not driving, provide a copy to the driver. This completed checklist is an official certificate that will satisfy the requirements of all
non-infested States.
3)Once your move is completed, you may want to keep the checklist filed with your moving materials in case you need it in the future.
Where Do I Go For Help?
•See the back of this flyer for photos of all spongy moth life stages.
•Learn more at www.YourMoveSpongyMothFree.com.
•Contact your State Department of Agriculture or nearest USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) office (www.aphis.usda.gov/planthealth/sphd).
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
This publication supersedes Program Aid No. 2065, “Your Next Move Gypsy Moth-Free,” which was published in October 2010.
Issued October 2013
Revised April 2023
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Program Aid No. 2147
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0579-0104. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average .362 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.
OMB APPROVED
0579-0104
EXP. DATE
08/31/2026
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE PLANT PROTECTION AND QUARANTINE
SPONGY MOTH CHECKLIST AND
RECORD OF YOUR SELF-INSPECTION
Important: Make sure this checklist goes with your outdoor household items when you move
1. Originating Property Address
2. Date
3. Recreational or Camping Items
□ Backpacks
□ Ice Chests
□ Tarps
□ Basketball Backboards
□ Motorcycles
□ Tents
□ Bicycles
□ Motor Homes
□ Waders or Boots
□ Boats
□ Recreational Vehicles
□ Other: _____________________
□ Boat Trailers
□ Snowmobiles
□ None
□ Campers
□ Sports Equipment
4. Household Items
□ Air Conditioners
□ Ladders
□ Tanks for Propane and Oil
□ Barrels
□ Outdoor Doormats
□ Television Antennas
□ Cardboard and Wooden Boxes
□ Outdoor Thermometers
□ Trash Cans
□ Clothesline Poles
□ Refrigerators
□ Washing Machines
□ Clothespin Bags
□ Sheets of Plastic
□ Water Hoses
□ Empty Plant Containers
□ Shutters
□ Weather Vanes
□ Firewood*
□ Storage Sheds
□ Window Awnings
□ House Plants (taken outside
□ Storm/screen Doors and Windows
during the summer)
5. Building Materials
□ Bricks
□ Roofing Materials
□ Welding Equipment
□ Cement Mixing Tubs
□ Sewer Pipes
□ Workbenches
□ Cinder Blocks
□ Tools and Toolboxes
□ Lumber
□ Water Pipes
6. Yard and Garden Items
Animal Houses (doghouses,
□ Fertilizer Spreaders
□ rabbit hutches, etc.)
□ Barbecue Grills
□ Flagpoles
□ Swimming Pools
□ Birdbaths
□ Garden Tillers
□ Tractors and Trailers
□ Bird Feeders
□ Garden Tools
□ Trees, Shrubs, and Plants
□ Bird Houses
□ Lawnmowers
□ Trellises
□ Bug lights
□ Mailboxes
□ Wheelbarrows
□ Carts
□ Picnic Tables
□ Yard Decorations
□ Cold Frames
□ Porch or Patio Furniture
□ Driftwood
□ Signs and Posts
□ Fencing
□ Snow-blowers
7. Children’s Playthings
Other Outside Toys (like trucks or
□ Bicycles, tricycles
□ Swing sets
□ sand molds)
□ Playhouses
□ Tire Swings
□ Sandboxes
□ Wagons
□ Sleds, Toboggans
8. Other Items
□ Cars or Trucks
□ Farm Implements
□ Car Parts
□ Stored Tires (snow tires)
□ Car Ramps
Spongy moth egg masses on a lawn mower (USDA/APHIS, Susan Lane)
Spongy moth egg mass on a padlock (USDA/APHIS, Susan Lane)
Spongy moth caterpillar (larva)
(Daniel Herms, The Ohio State University, Bugwood.org)
Spongy moth pupae
(Pennsylvania Department of Conservation
and Natural Resources, Forestry Archive,
Bugwood.org)
Female (top) and male adult spongy moths (USDA APHIS PPQ Archive, USDA/APHIS/PPQ, Bugwood.org)
Inspect anything that was stored outside
By signing my name in block 9 below, I agree that I am legally signing this document and affirming that I have inspected all outdoor household articles, whether included on this checklist or not, for all life stages of spongy moth in accordance with the procedures on this form, as required by Title 7, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 301.45-4(a).
9.Signature and Date
11.Printed Name
10. Phone Number
12.Company Name (if applicable)
* To avoid spreading other tree pests, move only USDA- or State-certified, treated, and labeled firewood.
PPQ Form 377
APR 2023
Note: The electronic signature function on this form works only if the user opens the file in Internet Explorer or Adobe Acrobat.
To ensure compliance with the gypsy moth inspection law, you need to fill out the California Gypsy Moth Checklist form accurately. This checklist is crucial for moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area. Follow these steps to complete the form correctly.
Once completed, keep a copy of the checklist with your moving items. This document serves as proof of inspection and may be requested by officials during your move. It’s important to retain this for future reference as well.
The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form is designed to help individuals moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area. It ensures that outdoor household items are inspected for gypsy moths and that all life stages of this pest are removed before the move. This process is important to prevent the spread of gypsy moths, which can harm a variety of trees and shrubs.
Anyone moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area must use the checklist if they are relocating to a non-quarantine area. If you do not live in a quarantine area, you are not required to complete this checklist. To determine your status, you can visit www.YourMoveGypsyMothFree.com and check the U.S. map for quarantine areas.
To conduct a self-inspection, follow these steps:
If you are unable to perform the inspection yourself, consider hiring a qualified certified applicator.
After completing the checklist, keep a copy in the vehicle transporting your goods. This is important in case a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or State official requests it during your move. If you are not driving, provide a copy to the driver. It serves as an official certificate that meets the requirements of non-infested states.
For more information, you can:
If you are required to inspect your items and do not do so, you may face penalties. It is important to follow the legal requirements to protect your new neighborhood from the potential spread of gypsy moths.
It is recommended to complete the inspection on the day of your move, especially if you are moving between April and August. If this is not possible, ensure that your items are protected from infestation by sealing them under a tarp, keeping them indoors, or placing them in a closed moving truck until the inspection can be completed.
Failing to inspect all outdoor household items. Many individuals overlook certain items, such as lawn equipment or outdoor toys, which can harbor gypsy moth egg masses. A thorough inspection is crucial to ensure compliance with the law.
Not completing the checklist accurately. Some people may neglect to check off items as they inspect them or fail to provide required information, such as the origin address and date. This can lead to complications during inspections by authorities.
Ignoring the timing of the inspection. It is recommended to conduct the inspection on the moving day, especially between April and August. Delaying the inspection may increase the risk of infestation and non-compliance.
Not keeping a copy of the completed checklist. After moving, some individuals forget to retain a copy of the checklist. This document serves as proof of compliance and may be needed in the future if questions arise.
Overlooking the need for professional help. If self-inspection seems overwhelming, individuals may underestimate the value of hiring a certified applicator. Professional inspections can provide peace of mind and ensure thorough compliance with regulations.
When moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area in California, it’s important to have the right documentation. Along with the California Gypsy Moth Checklist form, several other forms and documents may be required to ensure compliance with regulations. Here’s a list of commonly used documents that can help facilitate a smooth move.
Being prepared with these documents can make your moving process smoother and help you avoid potential issues. Always check for the most current regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance with state and federal laws.
The California Gypsy Moth Checklist form shares similarities with the USDA Plant Quarantine Compliance Agreement. Both documents serve as official certifications that individuals must adhere to when moving items from a quarantined area. The compliance agreement outlines the responsibilities of the individual to ensure that no pests are transported, just like the checklist requires inspection and removal of gypsy moth life stages. Each document emphasizes the importance of protecting non-quarantine areas from potential infestations, ensuring that the necessary inspections are conducted before moving. Both forms also require documentation that can be requested by agricultural officials during transport.
Another document that aligns closely with the California Gypsy Moth Checklist is the State of California’s Pest Control Operator License. This license is necessary for professionals who conduct pest inspections and treatments. Similar to the checklist, the license ensures that qualified individuals perform inspections and that they are knowledgeable about the specific pests, including gypsy moths. Both documents aim to minimize the spread of harmful pests and require adherence to state regulations. The pest control operator must also maintain records of inspections, akin to the checklist's requirement for individuals to keep a copy of their inspection results.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has a form called the Agricultural Pesticide Use Report, which is also relevant in this context. This report documents the use of pesticides and is essential for tracking pest management practices. Like the Gypsy Moth Checklist, it emphasizes accountability and environmental protection. Both documents require individuals to take proactive steps in pest management, whether through inspection or pesticide application, ensuring that the risks of pest infestations are mitigated.
Another similar document is the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Certificate of Inspection. This certificate is issued after a thorough inspection of goods intended for transport. It parallels the California Gypsy Moth Checklist in that both require a detailed examination of items to prevent the movement of pests. The certificate serves as proof that the items have been inspected and are free from pests, which is a crucial aspect of both forms. Both documents help facilitate safe movement across state lines and protect agricultural interests.
The Interstate Movement Permit is another document that shares characteristics with the Gypsy Moth Checklist. This permit is required for transporting certain agricultural products across state lines. Similar to the checklist, it ensures that items are free from pests before movement. Both documents are vital for maintaining agricultural integrity and preventing the spread of pests, reinforcing the need for inspections and documentation to comply with state and federal regulations.
Additionally, the California Invasive Species Action Plan outlines strategies for preventing the spread of invasive species, including gypsy moths. This plan emphasizes the need for inspections and public awareness, much like the checklist. Both documents aim to educate individuals about the risks associated with moving items from infested areas and provide guidelines for proper inspection and removal of pests. They work in tandem to enhance community awareness and promote responsible practices among residents.
Finally, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit shares similarities with the Gypsy Moth Checklist in terms of regulatory compliance. This permit is necessary for individuals rehabilitating wildlife, which can also be affected by invasive species like the gypsy moth. Both documents require individuals to follow strict guidelines to protect local ecosystems. They underscore the importance of preventing the introduction of harmful species into new environments, ensuring that responsible actions are taken to safeguard both wildlife and plant life.
When filling out the California Gypsy Moth Checklist form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure compliance with the law and protect your new environment. Here are ten things you should and shouldn’t do:
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth transition and help prevent the spread of the gypsy moth, a pest that poses a significant threat to trees and shrubs.
The checklist is mandatory for anyone moving from a gypsy moth quarantine area to a non-quarantine area. Failure to complete the inspection could result in penalties.
Individuals can perform a self-inspection using the checklist. However, hiring a qualified certified applicator is also an option.
The inspection is straightforward and can typically be completed in about one hour. Following the provided steps makes it manageable.
Residents in quarantine areas can still move, but they must inspect their items for gypsy moths before doing so.
All outdoor household items, regardless of size, should be inspected. This includes toys, tools, and even small decorations.
It is advisable to keep a copy of the completed checklist for your records. This can be useful for future reference or if requested by authorities.
Items must be protected from potential infestation during the move. This can involve sealing them under a tarp or keeping them indoors.
The checklist covers a wide range of items, including recreational equipment, household goods, and building materials. All outdoor items should be inspected.
Fill Out Your California Gypsy Moth Checklist Template