The Texas Department of Agriculture is the lead state agency for Nursery floral licenses and Quarantines. This responsibility includes investigating complaints of alleged nursery floral license misuse, absence of a license or transportation of quarantined articles into and around the state. TDA investigates complaints from any person who believes a violation has occurred of the Texas Nursery Floral Laws or related regulations has occurred. Rules and regulations can be found on the Texas Department of Agriculture website.

How to File a Complaint

Persons who want to report violation of the Nursery Floral Regulations (4 TAC Chapter 22) or Quarantine Regulations (4 TAC Chapter 19) should contact (512) 463-7660 or email PlantQuality@TexasAgriculture.gov. TDA may initiate an investigation when notified either orally or in writing.

Copies of the Report

The investigation report is subject to the provisions of the Texas Public Information Act. A copy of the report will be provided to the parties involved upon written request. Requests for reports should reference the TDA Incident Number located on the complaint form and be sent to: PubInfo@TexasAgriculture.gov. 

Reports are not available immediately following an investigation. Any samples collected must be analyzed and photographs developed. Interviews with all parties must be conducted before a report can be finalized.

Enforcement Actions

Depending on the result of the investigation, TDA may find that no violation could be documented or is unable to determine the responsible party and close the case without further action.

In the event that a violation can be documented, TDA may issue a warning; assess an administrative penalty; suspend, modify or revoke a license; or refer the case to another appropriate state or federal agency, county attorney, district attorney or Texas attorney general for further action. Monetary penalties collected by the state are deposited to State’s General Revenue Fund and not for the use of TDA.