Methyl bromide is used as a fumigant to control the growth or spread of certain pests or diseases. It is a controlled substance under the Montreal Protocol. It can sometimes be used for non-QPS fumigations, but only with special approval.
See the conditions for using methyl bromide for quarantine and pre-shipment (QPS) fumigation.
Critical use exemptions
To use methyl bromide as a fumigant outside of QPS purposes, you must contact us in the first instance as we need to seek a critical-use exemption under the Montreal Protocol. These exemptions are only granted in limited circumstances.
Your applications must meet Montreal Protocol criteria and requirements. See Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Legislation.
You will need to apply for an exemption at least 18 months in advance. This allows time for an international technical review, approval by Montreal Protocol parties and approval for use by us.
Permits
If your exemption has been approved, we will issue a permit.
It will include details of:
- the amount of methyl bromide you can use in a calendar year
- the nominated non-QPS supplier
- how you are permitted to use methyl bromide
- the geographical location of fumigation.
Emergency use
In exceptional emergency circumstances, we can grant a non-QPS permit without seeking approval from the Montreal Protocol Parties.
Reporting requirements
If you use methyl bromide under a critical use or emergency exemption, you must submit a report to us every 6 months.
Contact us for a copy of the approved report template.