# 8 CCR 1203-9: ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE ORGANIC CERTIFICATION ACT

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## Section

- **Citation:** 8 CCR 1203-9
- **Heading:** ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE ORGANIC CERTIFICATION ACT
- **Jurisdiction:** Colorado
- **Kind:** Regulations
- **Status:** In force
- **Text as of:** August 14, 2026
- **Source:** Compiled text
- **Location:** Code of Colorado Regulations / 1200 Department of Agriculture / 1203 Plant Industry Division / 8 CCR 1203-9

## Text

1
Department of Agriculture
Plant Industry Division
ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE ORGANIC CERTIFICATION ACT
8 CCR 1203-9
[Editor’s Notes follow the text of the rules at the end of this CCR Document.]
Section 1.
Purpose
1.01. These permanent rules are intended to facilitate certification of organic producers
and handlers by the Colorado Department of Agriculture (“Department”) under
the United States Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program.
Section 2.
Certification of Producers and Handlers Under the National Organic
Program
2.01. All certification of organic producers and handlers shall be done by the
Department in its capacity as an accredited certifying agent for the United States
Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program and in accordance with
the provisions of the Organic Food Production Act of 1990, 7 U.S.C. § 6501 et
seq. (2018) , incorporated by reference herein, and the National Organic
Program Final Rule, 7 C.F.R. Part 205 (2019) , incorporated by reference herein.
Please refer to Section 5 for incorporation by reference information.
Section 3.
Fees
3.01. Each applicant for certification shall be charged an annual, non-refundable
certification fee based on the direct and indirect cost of administering the
Program, including but not limited to, the category or categories for which the
applicant is seeking certification, the type, size and complexity of the operation,
the timing of submission of the application with respect to when an inspection
must be conducted and any other factors that affect the cost to perform required
certification activities for the applicant. Applicants shall submit payment of this
fee with their application for certification. Once certified, all producers and
handlers certified under the program shall pay this fee on an annual basis for
each subsequent year in which they wish to remain certified by the Department.
3.02
conducted and any other factors that affect the cost to perform required
certification activities for the applicant. Applicants shall submit payment of this
fee with their application for certification. Once certified, all producers and
handlers certified under the program shall pay this fee on an annual basis for
each subsequent year in which they wish to remain certified by the Department.
3.02. The certification fee will be calculated by combining a base fee of $517.50 for the
Applicant’s primary scope with scope fees as set forth below. If more than one
type of production occurs within a scope, the scope fee is based upon the
production which produces the most income. For operations that include multiple
scopes, each additional scope incurs only a $1,035.00 base fee. For the
purposes of this Section 3, “primary scope” means the part of an applicant’s
operation that produces the most income.
Code of Colorado Regulations
Secretary of State
State of Colorado

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a.
Crop Scope Fees
i.
Dryland Acres
1.
1 – 1,000 acres: $517.50
2.
1,001 – 4,000 acres: $1,035.00
3.
4,001 – 7,500 acres: $2,173.50
4.
7,501 – 10,000 acres: $2,691.00
5.
10,001 or more acres: $3,208.50
ii.
Greenhouse/Specialty Crop
1.
1 – 12,000 square feet: $517.50
2.
12,001 – 15,000 square feet: $1,035.00
3.
15,001 or more square feet: $2,173.50
iii.
Irrigated Acres
1.
1 – 25 acres: $517.50
2.
26 – 200 acres: $1,035.00
3.
201 – 1,000 acres: $2,173.50
4.
1,001 – 5,000 acres: $2,691.00
5.
5,001 or more acres: $3,208.50
iv.
Perennial Fruit
1.
1 – 5 acres: $517.50
2.
6 – 15 acres: $1,035.00
3.
16 – 30 acres: $1,552.50
4.
31 – 50 acres: $2,173.50
5.
51 or more acres: $2,691.00
b.
Livestock Scope Fees
i.
Cattle – Dairy/Beef

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2.
26 – 200 acres: $1,035.00
3.
201 – 1,000 acres: $2,173.50
4.
1,001 – 5,000 acres: $2,691.00
5.
5,001 or more acres: $3,208.50
iv.
Perennial Fruit
1.
1 – 5 acres: $517.50
2.
6 – 15 acres: $1,035.00
3.
16 – 30 acres: $1,552.50
4.
31 – 50 acres: $2,173.50
5.
51 or more acres: $2,691.00
b.
Livestock Scope Fees
i.
Cattle – Dairy/Beef

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1.
1 – 100 head: $517.50
2.
101 – 300 head: $1,035.00
3.
301 – 1,000 head: $2,691.00
4.
1,001 – 5,000 head: $3,622.50
5.
5,001 or more head: $10,350.00
ii.
Poultry
1.
1 – 1,000 birds:
$517.50
2.
1,001 – 10,000 birds: $1,035.00
3.
10,001 – 25,000 birds: $2,173.50
4.
25,001 – 50,000 birds: $2,691.00
5.
50,001 or more birds: $3,208.50
iii.
Other (sheep, pigs, etc.)
1.
1 – 100 head: $517.50
2.
101 – 300 head:
$1,035.00
3.
301 – 1,000 head: $2,691.00
4.
1,001 – 5,000 head: $3,622.50
5.
5,001 or more head: $10,350.00
c.
Poultry and Livestock Processing Scope Fees
i.
Livestock Processing
1.
1 – 300 head: $517.50
2.
301 to 500 head: $1,035.00
3.
501 or more head: $2,173.50
ii.
Poultry Processing Scope Fees
1.
1 – 3,000 birds:
$517.50
2.
3,001 – 9,000 birds: $1,035.00

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3.
9,001 or more head: $2,173.50
d.
Process Handler Scope Fees
If both single-ingredient and multi-ingredient products are requested for
certification, the scope fee is based upon the highest fee of the two product
categories.
i.
Multi-Ingredient Finished Products
1.
1 – 5 products: $517.50
2.
6 – 10 products: $1,035.00
3.
11 – 15 products: $1,552.50
4.
16 – 20 products: $2,070.00
5.
21 – 30 products: $2,587.50
6.
31 or more products: $3,105.00
ii.
Single-Ingredient Finished Products
1.
1 – 20 products: $517.50
2.
21 – 50 products: $1,035.00
3.
51 – 75 products: $1,552.50
4.
76 – 100 products: $2,070.00
5.
101 – 200 products: $2,587.50
6.
201 or more products: $3,105.00
e.
Wild Crop Scope Fees
i.
Wild Crop Harvesting
1.
1 – 2 sites: $517.50
2.
3 – 5 sites: $1,035.00
3
70.00
5.
21 – 30 products: $2,587.50
6.
31 or more products: $3,105.00
ii.
Single-Ingredient Finished Products
1.
1 – 20 products: $517.50
2.
21 – 50 products: $1,035.00
3.
51 – 75 products: $1,552.50
4.
76 – 100 products: $2,070.00
5.
101 – 200 products: $2,587.50
6.
201 or more products: $3,105.00
e.
Wild Crop Scope Fees
i.
Wild Crop Harvesting
1.
1 – 2 sites: $517.50
2.
3 – 5 sites: $1,035.00
3.
6 or more sites: $2,173.50
3.03. Depending upon the operation(s) that an applicant wishes to certify, an applicant
may have more than one additional scope.

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3.04. In addition to the above annual fees, all applicants for and holders of
certifications issued by the Department shall be required to pay the costs of any
inspections necessary to obtain and maintain certification as follows:
a.
A flat-rate inspection fee of $155.25 per inspection that covers indirect
costs of the inspection (e.g., mileage, travel, pre- and post-inspection
review); and
b.
On-site inspection time will be charged at a rate of $46.58 per hour.
3.05. The base application fee of $517.50 is non-refundable. Any additional scope
base fee(s) and the primary scope fees are non-refundable once the Colorado
Department of Agriculture begins its initial review of the application. In order to
obtain a refund, the applicant must inform the Colorado Department of
Agriculture in writing that he/she/it no longer wishes to proceed with organic
certification and must request a refund of the application fee(s).
Section 4.
Minimum Standards for Contract Inspectors
4.01. The inspector must have sufficient training, knowledge and experience with the
National Organic Program rules and generally accepted inspection processes to
conduct inspections in any certification category for which they apply to conduct
inspections without further training. Inspectors will be selected only in the
category or categories for which they can demonstrate sufficient training,
knowledge and experience.
4.02
e sufficient training, knowledge and experience with the
National Organic Program rules and generally accepted inspection processes to
conduct inspections in any certification category for which they apply to conduct
inspections without further training. Inspectors will be selected only in the
category or categories for which they can demonstrate sufficient training,
knowledge and experience.
4.02. A prospective inspector may demonstrate training, knowledge and experience by
providing:
a.
Evidence of inspections conducted within the last three years in specific
categories. Inspector evaluations for the inspections should be provided
from the accredited certifier along with the contact name of the accredited
certifier; or
b.
Documentation of successful attendance and completion Independent
Organic Inspector Association or equivalent training in the past three
years; or
c.
Evidence of other qualifications the Commissioner determines appropriate
to demonstrate training, knowledge and experience.
4.03. The Department reserves the right to require the prospective inspector to take an
examination to determine his or her knowledge of the National Organic Program
rules and general inspection processes.

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Section 5.
Incorporation by Reference
5.01 All material incorporated by reference is made a part of these rules. material
incorporated by reference does not include later amendments to the incorporated
material.
5.02. Copies of all incorporated materials are available for public inspection during
regular business hours at the Colorado Department of Agriculture, 305
Interlocken Parkway, Broomfield, Colorado 80021.
5.03. Copies of incorporated materials are also available on-line as follows:
a.
The Organic Food Production Act of 1990, 7 U.S.C. § 6501 et seq, (2018)
is available at:
http://uscode.house.gov/browse/prelim@title7/chapter94&edition=prelim.
b.
The National Organic Program Final Rule, 7 C.F.R
iness hours at the Colorado Department of Agriculture, 305
Interlocken Parkway, Broomfield, Colorado 80021.
5.03. Copies of incorporated materials are also available on-line as follows:
a.
The Organic Food Production Act of 1990, 7 U.S.C. § 6501 et seq, (2018)
is available at:
http://uscode.house.gov/browse/prelim@title7/chapter94&edition=prelim.
b.
The National Organic Program Final Rule, 7 C.F.R. Part 205 (2019) is
available at: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-
idx?SID=158497554242ed518daf630850c57f63&mc=true&node=pt7.3.20
5&rgn=div5.
Section 6 – 8
Reserved
Section 9
Statements of Basis, Specific Statutory Authority and Purpose
9.01. Adopted 7-7-89 - Effective 7-7-89.
Adopted 8-24-89 - Effective 10-1-89.
Pursuant to the provisions and requirements of the Organic Certification Act to regulate
the production and certification of agricultural crops offered for sale as “organically
grown products,” Title 35, Article 11.5, CRS, the following rules and regulations are
hereby promulgated.
The purpose of these rules and regulations is to comply with the provisions of the
associated statute to provide specific guidelines for the production and certification of
agricultural products sold or offered for sale as organically grown.
The regulations are designed to:
Set standards for producing agricultural products that may be certified as having been
produced without the use of any synthetically compounded fertilizer or pesticide.
To set certifications procedures to:
Issue evidence of the crop certification and for the sale and distribution of the “organic
label” to licensed producers.
To establish procedures for:

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ucing agricultural products that may be certified as having been
produced without the use of any synthetically compounded fertilizer or pesticide.
To set certifications procedures to:
Issue evidence of the crop certification and for the sale and distribution of the “organic
label” to licensed producers.
To establish procedures for:

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Examining and evaluating products offered for sale to “organic producers” as a “plant
amendment.”
Establish inspection procedures and policies for enforcement of the Act;
Determine license and inspection fees.
9.02. Adopted 5-1-90 - Effective 5-1-90.
This rule is adopted under the Colorado Organic Certification Act pursuant to Section
35-11.5-104, C.R.S. and deals with the definition of “synthetic pesticide”.
Organic producers may not use synthetic pesticides when growing crops on certified
organic farms. In a number of pesticides the active ingredient is naturally derived but the
inert ingredients are in some way synthetic. These products are synthetic under the
definition of synthetic pesticide in the Rules and Regulations adopted on July 7, 1989.
At this time the list of pesticides which do not fall under the July 7, 1989, definition of
synthetic is very limited.
The amended definition will permit organic producers a broader selection of pesticide
products to choose from and still be able to use natural active ingredients.
These pesticide products will be needed for use by organic producers in the very near
future. The time required to go through the public hearing process would prevent many
of the growers from using these products in the 1990 growing season. This will result in
a financial loss to growers because of uncontrolled insect and disease problems
e from and still be able to use natural active ingredients.
These pesticide products will be needed for use by organic producers in the very near
future. The time required to go through the public hearing process would prevent many
of the growers from using these products in the 1990 growing season. This will result in
a financial loss to growers because of uncontrolled insect and disease problems.
The immediate adoption of rule 1.19 is imperatively necessary for the preservation of
public health, safety, and welfare, and compliance with the notice and hearing
requirements of Section 24-4-103 of the Colorado Administrative Procedure Act would
be contrary to the public interest.
9.03. Adopted 6-22-90 - Effective 7-30-90.
The following rule is hereby promulgated under the authority of the Colorado Organic
Certification Act, pursuant to Section 35-11.5-104, C.R.S. It deals with the definition of
“synthetic pesticide”.
Organic producers may not use synthetic pesticides when growing crops on certified
organic farms. In a number of pesticides the active ingredient is naturally derived but the
inert ingredients are in some way synthetic. These products are synthetic under the
definition of synthetic pesticide in the Rules and Regulations adopted on July 7, 1989.
At this time the list of pesticides which do not fall under the July 7, 1989, definition of
synthetic is very limited.
The amended definition will permit organic producers a broader selection of pesticide
products to choose from and still be able to use natural active ingredients. Without the

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nd Regulations adopted on July 7, 1989.
At this time the list of pesticides which do not fall under the July 7, 1989, definition of
synthetic is very limited.
The amended definition will permit organic producers a broader selection of pesticide
products to choose from and still be able to use natural active ingredients. Without the

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use of these products certified organic growers may suffer financial losses because of
uncontrolled insect and disease problems.
Section 1 of the Rules and Regulations promulgated pursuant to the Colorado Organic
Certification Act is amended by substituting the following for subsection 1.19.:
1.19. “Synthetic Pesticide” means any pesticide whose active ingredient contains any
synthetically manufactured substance. Any pesticide whose active ingredient
does not contain any synthetically manufactured substance is not a “synthetic
pesticide” even though it contains an inert ingredient which inert ingredient
contains a synthetically manufactured substance. This subsection shall expire on
January 1, 1992.
9.04. Adopted 10-18-91 - Effective 11-30-91.
The following rules are hereby promulgated under the authority of the Colorado Organic
Certification Act, pursuant to Section 35-11.5-104, C.R.S. They deal with the definition
of “synthetic pesticide” and with the subsection which exempts seed and seedlings from
the requirements for organic production.
The definition of “synthetic pesticide” expires on January 1, 1992. At the time it was
adopted in 1990, the State Agricultural Commission instructed proponents of this
definition to re-evaluate it prior to 1992. The concern was over the blanket acceptance
of synthetic inert ingredients in pesticides deemed acceptable for use in organic crop
production. However, in the fall of 1990 the federal “Organic Foods Production Act of
1990” was passed by the United States Congress
time it was
adopted in 1990, the State Agricultural Commission instructed proponents of this
definition to re-evaluate it prior to 1992. The concern was over the blanket acceptance
of synthetic inert ingredients in pesticides deemed acceptable for use in organic crop
production. However, in the fall of 1990 the federal “Organic Foods Production Act of
1990” was passed by the United States Congress. It calls for state organic certification
programs to meet certain standards to comply with federal requirements, to take effect
on October 1, 1993. This federal legislation will make it necessary to amend the
Colorado Organic Certification Act and the Rules and Regulations pertaining to it before
this deadline.
It will be appropriate to re-evaluate the definition of “synthetic pesticide” at the same
time that other changes, needed to comply with the federal statute, are made to the
state legislation and regulations. The expiration date of this definition is therefore
extended to October 1, 1993.
Subsection 4.02 exempts seed and seedlings from the requirements for organic
production. This provision expires on January 1, 1992. The subsection was included in
the regulations because of the great lack of availability of untreated seeds and
seedlings in the Colorado organic production areas. This lack of availability is still a
problem to Colorado organic producers and termination of this exemption within the
next year will create a hardship for many organic producers and cause them to suffer
financial losses.
In order to give organic producers more time to find sources of untreated seed, as more
of these sources are made available, the expiration date of the provisions of this
subsection are therefore extended until October 1, 1993 for seed. The expiration date
for seedlings remains at January 1, 1992.

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e them to suffer
financial losses.
In order to give organic producers more time to find sources of untreated seed, as more
of these sources are made available, the expiration date of the provisions of this
subsection are therefore extended until October 1, 1993 for seed. The expiration date
for seedlings remains at January 1, 1992.

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9.05. Adopted 11-19-93 - Effective 12-30-93.
The following rule is hereby promulgated under the authority of the Colorado Organic
Certification Act, pursuant to Section 35-11.5-104, C.R.S., (1993 Supp). It defines
“synthetic pesticide” and includes an expiration date in the definition.
The definition states that a pesticide is not a synthetic pesticide because it contains a
synthetic inert ingredient. This definition thus allows for synthetic inert ingredients in
pesticides which may be used by organic producers and it is now set to expire on
October 1, 1995. At the present time there are virtually no pesticides being
manufactured that do not have synthetic inert ingredients. Organic producers would
have great difficulty growing crops without using these pesticides. It is anticipated that
by October 1, 1995, federal regulations will provide lists of pesticides acceptable for use
in organic production. At that time it will be appropriate to reevaluate this definition.
Section 1 of the Rules and Regulations promulgated pursuant to the Colorado Organic
Certification Act is amended by substituting the following for subsection 1.19:
1.19. “Synthetic Pesticide” means any pesticide whose active ingredient contains any
synthetically manufactured substance. Any pesticide whose active ingredient
does not contain any synthetically manufactured substance is not a “synthetic
pesticide” even though it contains an inert ingredient which inert ingredient
contains a synthetically manufactured substance. This subsection shall expire on
October 1, 1995.
9.06. Adopted 11-18-94 - Effective 12-30-94
ve ingredient contains any
synthetically manufactured substance. Any pesticide whose active ingredient
does not contain any synthetically manufactured substance is not a “synthetic
pesticide” even though it contains an inert ingredient which inert ingredient
contains a synthetically manufactured substance. This subsection shall expire on
October 1, 1995.
9.06. Adopted 11-18-94 - Effective 12-30-94.
These amendments to the rules and regulations are adopted pursuant to § 35-11.5-104,
C.R.S. (1994 Supp.).
The purposes of these amendments to the rules and regulations are to establish
standards for the use of any other organic labels on agricultural products sold within the
state, pursuant to § § 35-11.5-104(1)(h) and 109(2), C.R.S. (1994 Supp.) and to provide
guidance pertinent to the sanction imposed upon an organic producer's license pursuant
to §35-11.5-111, C.R.S. (1994 Supp.).
SECTION 4.5
STANDARDS FOR THE USE OF OTHER ORGANIC LABELS ON
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS SOLD WITHIN THE STATE
4.51. Other organic labels are those labels defined in § 35-11.5-103(6) of the Act,
specifically, any label, other than the organic certification seal described in
Section 7 below, which signifies to a consumer that the labelled product was
organically grown. Such other labels may include, but are not limited to, a sign,
label, seal, advertisement, or other type of promotional material pertaining to a
product containing the words “organic,” “organically grown,” , “certified,” “certified
organic,” “verified,” “verified organic,” any derivation of said words, or words with
similar meaning. Failure to comply with this Section 4.5 is a prohibited act as set
forth in §35-11.5-109(2), C.R.S. (1994 Supp.).

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4.52. No such other organic labels shall be utilized in any fashion unless:
ly grown,” , “certified,” “certified
organic,” “verified,” “verified organic,” any derivation of said words, or words with
similar meaning. Failure to comply with this Section 4.5 is a prohibited act as set
forth in §35-11.5-109(2), C.R.S. (1994 Supp.).

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4.52. No such other organic labels shall be utilized in any fashion unless:
(a)
The product was produced without the use of artificial irradiation, synthetic
pesticides, synthetic plant or soil amendments, or fertilizer materials
except natural organic fertilizers. Soaps for insecticidal purposes, lime
sulphur, and horticultural oils are permissible;
(b)
In the case of perennial crops, was grown in soil or growth medium free of
the application of synthetic pesticides, synthetic soil and plant
amendments, and synthetic fertilizer materials for three years prior to
harvest; and
(c)
In the case of annual crops and two-year crops, was grown without the
use of synthetic pesticides, synthetic soil and plant amendments, and
synthetic fertilizer materials for three years prior to harvest.
9.07. Adopted 1-19-96 - Effective 3-1-96.
This amendment to the rules and regulations is adopted pursuant to §35-11.5-104,
C.R.S. (1985). It amends the expiration date which is part of the definition of “synthetic
pesticide”.
The definition states that a pesticide is not a synthetic pesticide because it contains a
synthetic inert ingredient. This definition thus allows for synthetic inert ingredients in
pesticides which may be used by organic producers and it is now set to expire on
October 1, 1997. At the present time there are virtually no pesticides being
manufactured that do not have synthetic inert ingredients. Organic producers would
have great difficulty growing crops without using these pesticides. It is anticipated that
by October 1, 1997, federal regulations will provide lists of pesticides acceptable for use
in organic production. At that time it will be appropriate to reevaluate this definition
time there are virtually no pesticides being
manufactured that do not have synthetic inert ingredients. Organic producers would
have great difficulty growing crops without using these pesticides. It is anticipated that
by October 1, 1997, federal regulations will provide lists of pesticides acceptable for use
in organic production. At that time it will be appropriate to reevaluate this definition.
Section 1 of the Rules and Regulations promulgated pursuant to the Colorado Organic
Certification Act is amended by substituting the following for subsection 1.19:
1.19. “Synthetic Pesticide” means any pesticide whose active ingredient contains any
synthetically manufactured substance. Any pesticide whose active ingredient
does not contain any synthetically manufactured substance is not a “synthetic
pesticide” even though it contains an inert ingredient which inert ingredient
contains a synthetically manufactured substance. This subsection shall expire on
October 1, 1997.
9.08. Adopted 11-13-97 - Effective 12-30-97.
This amendment to the rules and regulations is adopted pursuant to § 35-11.5-104,
C.R.S. (1997).

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The purposes of this amendment are to delete the expiration date which is found in the
definition of “synthetic pesticide” and to require review of this definition upon adoption of
applicable federal rules.
FACTUAL FINDINGS
The United States Department of Agriculture is in the process of rulemaking pursuant to
the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, codified at 7 U.S.C. § 6501 et. seq. It is
anticipated that these federal rules, which would be controlling, will resolve all issues
concerning “synthetic pesticides.” The federal rules will likely not be adopted prior to the
expiration date found in the definition of “synthetic pesticide.”
Section 1 is amended as follows:
SECTION 1. TERMS DEFINED AND CONSTRUED
1.19. “Synthetic Pesticide” means any pesticide whose active ingredient contains any
synthetically manufactured substance
h would be controlling, will resolve all issues
concerning “synthetic pesticides.” The federal rules will likely not be adopted prior to the
expiration date found in the definition of “synthetic pesticide.”
Section 1 is amended as follows:
SECTION 1. TERMS DEFINED AND CONSTRUED
1.19. “Synthetic Pesticide” means any pesticide whose active ingredient contains any
synthetically manufactured substance. Any pesticide whose active ingredient
does not contain any synthetically manufactured substance is not a “synthetic
pesticide” even though it contains an inert ingredient which inert ingredient
contains a synthetically manufactured substance. This subsection shall be
reviewed upon adoption by the United States Department of Agriculture of rules
pursuant to the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, codified at 7 U.S.C. §
6501 et. seq.
9.09. Adopted 10-16-02 - Effective 10-16-02.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY:
These emergency rules are adopted by the Commissioner of Agriculture pursuant to his
authority under the Organic Certification Act § 35-11.5-104, C.R.S. (2002).
PURPOSE:
The purpose of these emergency rules is to comply with and implement the provisions
of H.B. 02-1186 directing the Colorado Department of Agriculture (“Department” ) to
establish an organic certification program that is accredited under the United States
Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program, which takes effect October 21,
2002.
NEED FOR EMERGENCY RULE:
The Commissioner of Agriculture hereby finds that immediate adoption of emergency
rules for the establishment and implementation of the organic certification program
provided for in H.B. 02-1186 is imperatively necessary to comply with federal regulation
and to preserve the public welfare. The factual basis for this finding is as follows:

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missioner of Agriculture hereby finds that immediate adoption of emergency
rules for the establishment and implementation of the organic certification program
provided for in H.B. 02-1186 is imperatively necessary to comply with federal regulation
and to preserve the public welfare. The factual basis for this finding is as follows:

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1.
The Organic Certification Act § § 35-11.5-101 – 117, C.R.S. (2002), was
originally enacted in 1989 to establish and implement a state program
administered by the Department to help identify and assist Colorado farmers in
marketing organically raised agricultural products.
2.
In 1990, Congress passed the Organic Food Production Act, 7 U.S.C. § 6501 et
seq., which authorized the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA” ) to
establish a national organic certification program that would supercede all state
and private certification programs.
3.
On December 21, 2000, USDA published its Final Rule at 7 C.F.R. part 205,
establishing a National Organic Program (“NOP” ). When this program takes
effect on October 21, 2002, the Colorado organic certification program
established in 1989 will be preempted by the federal program. As of that date, all
certifications issued under the 1989 Colorado law will be invalid. From that date
on, any person that sells any agricultural product labeled as “organic” must be
certified under the federal NOP instead.
4.
In response to requests from Colorado organic producers, the General Assembly
passed H.B. 02-1186, amending the Organic Certification Act effective June 3,
2002. This bill directed the Department to apply for accreditation to act as a
certifying agent for USDA to certify producers and handlers of organic produce
under the NOP.
5.
The Department applied for accreditation at the end of July, 2002, and was
notified within the last month that it can expect to receive accreditation before the
October 21, 2002 effective date of the Final NOP Rule
e June 3,
2002. This bill directed the Department to apply for accreditation to act as a
certifying agent for USDA to certify producers and handlers of organic produce
under the NOP.
5.
The Department applied for accreditation at the end of July, 2002, and was
notified within the last month that it can expect to receive accreditation before the
October 21, 2002 effective date of the Final NOP Rule. This notification was
unanticipated because USDA review of other state's applications for accreditation
took more than six months to complete.
6.
In order to serve the needs of organic producers and handlers to become
certified before October 21, 2002, the Department plans to begin certifying
producers and handlers as soon as it receives accreditation. If the Department is
not able to certify handlers and producers prior to that date, they will have to try
to obtain NOP certification from private certifying agents based outside of the
state in order to continue their organic business. These emergency rules will
allow the Department to issue certifications during the interim period until the
effective date of the permanent rules, which are scheduled to take effect on
January 1, 2003.
9.10. Adopted 10-30-02 - Effective 1-30-03.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY:
These permanent rules are adopted by the Commissioner of Agriculture pursuant to his
authority under the Organic Certification Act § 35-11.5-104, C.R.S. (2002).
PURPOSE:

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the
effective date of the permanent rules, which are scheduled to take effect on
January 1, 2003.
9.10. Adopted 10-30-02 - Effective 1-30-03.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY:
These permanent rules are adopted by the Commissioner of Agriculture pursuant to his
authority under the Organic Certification Act § 35-11.5-104, C.R.S. (2002).
PURPOSE:

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The purpose of these permanent rules is to: (1) repeal all of the existing permanent
rules for the administration and enforcement of the Organic Certification Act, § § 35-
11.5-101 – 117, C.R.S. (2002), currently published at 8 C.C.R. 1203-9 (including the
Statement of Basis and Purpose as well as Rules 1 through 11) and; (2) replace the
current permanent rules with new permanent rules which comply with and implement
the provisions of H.B. 02-1186 directing the Colorado Department of Agriculture
(“Department” ) to establish an organic certification program that is accredited under the
United States Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program.
FACTUAL AND POLICY ISSUES:
The factual and policy issues encountered in the proposal of these permanent rules are
as follows:
1.
The Organic Certification Act § § 35-11.5-101 – 117, C.R.S. (2002), was
originally enacted in 1989 to establish and implement a state program
administered by the Department to help identify and assist Colorado farmers in
marketing organically raised agricultural products.
2.
In 1990, Congress passed the Organic Food Production Act, 7 U.S.C. § 6501 et
seq., which authorized the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA” ) to
establish a national organic certification program that would supercede all state
and private certification programs.
3.
On December 21, 2000, USDA published its Final Rule at 7 C.F.R. part 205,
establishing a National Organic Program (“NOP” ). When this program takes
effect on October 21, 2002, the Colorado organic certification program
established in 1989 will be preempted by the federal program
establish a national organic certification program that would supercede all state
and private certification programs.
3.
On December 21, 2000, USDA published its Final Rule at 7 C.F.R. part 205,
establishing a National Organic Program (“NOP” ). When this program takes
effect on October 21, 2002, the Colorado organic certification program
established in 1989 will be preempted by the federal program. As of that date, all
certifications issued under the 1989 Colorado law will be invalid. From that date
on, any person that sells any agricultural product labeled as “organic” must be
certified under the federal NOP instead.
4.
In response to requests from Colorado organic producers, the General Assembly
passed H.B. 02-1186, amending the Organic Certification Act effective June 3,
2002. This bill directed the Department to apply for accreditation to act as a
certifying agent for USDA to certify producers and handlers of organic produce
under the NOP.
5.
The Department applied for accreditation at the end of July, 2002, and expects to
receive accreditation by early October.
6.
In order to serve the needs of organic producers and handlers to become
certified before October 21, 2002, the Department plans to begin certifying
producers and handlers as soon as it receives accreditation. In the interim period
before these permanent rules take effect, therefore, the Department plans to
incorporate the text of these proposed rules in temporary emergency rules.

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and handlers to become
certified before October 21, 2002, the Department plans to begin certifying
producers and handlers as soon as it receives accreditation. In the interim period
before these permanent rules take effect, therefore, the Department plans to
incorporate the text of these proposed rules in temporary emergency rules.

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14
9.11. Adopted 2-21-03 - Effective 6-2-03.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY:
These amendments to the permanent rules are adopted by the Commissioner of
Agriculture pursuant to his authority under the Organic Certification Act § 35-11.5-104,
C.R.S. (2002).
PURPOSE:
The purpose of these amendments to the permanent rules is to repeal the current
Section 2 of the existing permanent Rules incorporating the federal Organic Food
Production Act of 1990 and the National Organic Program Final Rule and replace it with
a new Section 2 that contains identical language to the current Rule plus additional
language explaining how to obtain the incorporated materials. Nonsubstantive changes
will be made to the rule to include the history of Statements of Basis and Purpose in
Section 9.
FACTUAL AND POLICY ISSUES:
The factual and policy issues encountered in the proposal of these permanent rules are
as follows:
1.
On October 30, 2002, the Department adopted new rules pursuant to the Organic
Certification Act § § 35-11.5-101 — 117, C.R.S. (2002), which established a
certification fee system and incorporated by reference the federal Organic Food
Production Act of 1990 and the National Organic Program Final Rule.
2.
On December 5, 2002, the Department received notice from the Colorado
General Assembly Office of Legislative Legal Services that, in order to comply
with § 24-4-104(12.5)(d), C.R.S., of the State Administrative Procedure Act,
Section 2 of the new permanent Rules must specify how the public may obtain or
examine the incorporated material.
9.12. Adopted 4-16-09 - Effective 5-30-09
ram Final Rule.
2.
On December 5, 2002, the Department received notice from the Colorado
General Assembly Office of Legislative Legal Services that, in order to comply
with § 24-4-104(12.5)(d), C.R.S., of the State Administrative Procedure Act,
Section 2 of the new permanent Rules must specify how the public may obtain or
examine the incorporated material.
9.12. Adopted 4-16-09 - Effective 5-30-09.
Statutory Authority
The amendments to the rules are adopted pursuant to the Organic Certification Act, §
35-11.5-104, C.R.S. (2008).
The purpose of these amendments is to carry out the provisions of the Organic
Certification Act by:
1)
updating the zip code for the Department of Agriculture to reflect the current zip
code;

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15
2)
removing the requirement that the annual fee for certification be due to the
Department of Agriculture on the anniversary date of initial certification; and
3)
increasing the reimbursement rate that can be charged for mileage for the
inspector's travel to reflect the cost charged to the Department of Agriculture by
Fleet Management for the vehicle.
The factual and policy issues encountered in the proposal of this amendment to the
rules are as follows:
1)
The United States Postal Service changed the last four numbers in the zip code
several years ago. This change will correct this item in the rule.
2)
The current rule requires the annual fee for certification be payable each year on
the anniversary date of the initial certification. Because the annual fee is paid at
the time the updated Organic Systems Plan is provided, this is not always
appropriate. The Organic Systems Plan is a forward looking document that
needs to submitted prior to the growing season for crops. When the initial
certification is received in August, this sets up an inappropriate time frame for
renewal in future years
ary date of the initial certification. Because the annual fee is paid at
the time the updated Organic Systems Plan is provided, this is not always
appropriate. The Organic Systems Plan is a forward looking document that
needs to submitted prior to the growing season for crops. When the initial
certification is received in August, this sets up an inappropriate time frame for
renewal in future years. Removal of this clause will allow the Department of
Agriculture to set the date the annual fee is due to coincide with the best time for
submission of the Organic Systems Plan.
3)
The current limit for the reimbursement rate of $0.30 per mile that can be
charged by for mileage for the inspector's travel is lower than what Fleet
Management changed the Department of Agriculture when gas prices were high.
Fleet Management raised the reimbursement rate to $0.37 per mile in late 2008.
This will allow the Department of Agriculture to be reimbursed at the rate needed
to meet Fleet Management's fee should gas prices rise in the future.
9.13. Adopted 12-16-10 - Effective 1-30-11.
Statutory Authority
The amendments to the rules are adopted pursuant to the Organic Certification Act, §
35-11.5-104, C.R.S. (2010).
The purpose of these amendments is to carry out the provisions of the Organic
Certification Act by:
1)
Identifying factors which lead to cost differentiation and the range of application
fees charged to entities apply for organic certification; and
2)
Stating the minimum standards for contract inspectors. The option is now
possible as the Organic Act was modified in 2010 adding the provision to allow
for the use of contract inspectors.
Factual and Policy Issues

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d to cost differentiation and the range of application
fees charged to entities apply for organic certification; and
2)
Stating the minimum standards for contract inspectors. The option is now
possible as the Organic Act was modified in 2010 adding the provision to allow
for the use of contract inspectors.
Factual and Policy Issues

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16
The factual and policy issues encountered when developing these rules include:
1)
Clarification was needed as to what type of factors are considered when
determining the application fee for certified entities.
2)
In 2010 the Organic Certification Act was amended to allow for contract
inspectors. To implement this new provision, standards were needed to state
what training, knowledge and experience the Department would require of
potential inspectors. This provides the minimum qualification for the department
to use in determining if a potential inspector is qualified. In addition it provides
information to potential inspectors as to what credentials will be needed to apply
as a contract inspector.
9.14 Adopted June 12, 2019– Effective July 30, 2019
Statutory Authority
The amendments to the rules are adopted pursuant to the Organic Certification Act, §
35-11.5-104, C.R.S.
The purpose of these amendments is to carry out the provisions of the Organic
Certification Act by:
1)
Updating the versions of all material incorporated by reference and combining all
incorporated by reference language into a new section of the rules;
2)
Updating the address for the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Organic
Program;
3)
Removing the cap on fees for providing certification services and including a fee
schedule in the Rules;
4)
Increasing the rate for inspection fees; and
5)
Removing the limit on reimbursement rates for mileage.
Factual and Policy Issues
The factual and policy issues encountered when developing these rules include:
1)
The Rules were last updated in 2011
partment of Agriculture’s Organic
Program;
3)
Removing the cap on fees for providing certification services and including a fee
schedule in the Rules;
4)
Increasing the rate for inspection fees; and
5)
Removing the limit on reimbursement rates for mileage.
Factual and Policy Issues
The factual and policy issues encountered when developing these rules include:
1)
The Rules were last updated in 2011. In that Time, newer versions of material
incorporated by reference have been issued. Therefore, the Department is
updating its Rules to reflect the most recent versions of incorporated material. In
addition, because incorporated material appears in multiple sections of the
Rules, the Department is consolidating all incorporation by reference information
in a new Section 5.

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17
2)
The Department has moved its headquarters from Lakewood, Colorado, to
Broomfield, Colorado. The amended language updates the Department’s
address.
3)
The Organic Program fees currently do not cover the cost of providing
certification services, and, therefore, the Department must increase base fees
and scope fees to cover the cost of providing those services. Because the
Organic Certification Act authorizes the Department to charge for all direct and
indirect cost of administering and implementing the Act and because the Act
does not require a cap on fees, the Department has revised the language of the
Rule to remove the cap and to be more consistent with the language in § 35-
11.5-104(1)(a) concerning fees to fund the Program.
4)
The Department has historically calculated certification fees based upon the
completion of an on-line form. To provide more certainty to the regulated
community with respect to fees charged, the Organic Program has included the
information in this form in the Rules
the
Rule to remove the cap and to be more consistent with the language in § 35-
11.5-104(1)(a) concerning fees to fund the Program.
4)
The Department has historically calculated certification fees based upon the
completion of an on-line form. To provide more certainty to the regulated
community with respect to fees charged, the Organic Program has included the
information in this form in the Rules. Because the operations of participants in the
Organic Program have increased in size and complexity since 2011, the Program
has revised the scope fee categories and values included in the on-line form to
reflect those changes. Save for large dairy or beef cattle operations, fees have
increased step-wise across the board. The scope fee for beef or dairy cattle
operations with over 1,000 head of cattle have increased beyond the step-wise
amount because these operations frequently cover multiple geographic areas
and have more complex organic system plans than smaller operations, which
makes the operations more time-consuming and costly to certify.
5)
The current rate charged for inspections only covers the actual cost for the
inspector’s time based on the current salary and benefits. It does not cover
indirect costs associated with the inspection, such as inspector training or
specialized or emergency inspections, nor does it allow for inspectors’ future
salary and benefit cost increases. By establishing a base inspection fee of
$150.00, the Department can defray indirect costs, such as mileage, travel, and
pre- and post-inspection review. An increase in the per hour inspection fee to
$45.00 enables the program to charge an amount closer to the actual costs of
providing services.
6)
Because travel is now included in the base inspection fee of $150.00 per
inspection, a specific mileage reimbursement provision is not necessary. This
increase will also cover the amount currently charged to the Organic Program for
mileage and vehicle use.
9.15 Adopted March 11, 2026 – Effective April 30, 2026
Statutory Authority
harge an amount closer to the actual costs of
providing services.
6)
Because travel is now included in the base inspection fee of $150.00 per
inspection, a specific mileage reimbursement provision is not necessary. This
increase will also cover the amount currently charged to the Organic Program for
mileage and vehicle use.
9.15 Adopted March 11, 2026 – Effective April 30, 2026
Statutory Authority

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18
These amendments to the rules are adopted by the Commissioner of Agriculture
pursuant to the Commissioner’s authority under the Organic Certification Act, § 35-11.5-
104, C.R.S.
The purpose of these amendments is to carry out the provisions of the Organic
Certification Act by:
1)
Increasing certification and inspection fees in order to fund all direct and indirect
costs of the administration and implementation of the Colorado Department of
Agriculture’s (“Department’s”) Organic Certification Program.
Factual and Policy Issues
The factual and policy issues encountered when developing these rules include:
1)
The certification and inspection fees were last updated in 2019. Since then,
inflation and cost-of-living rates have increased and, thus, the current certification
and inspection fees are no longer covering the cost of providing certification
services. Therefore, the Department must increase these fees to cover the cost
of providing those services.
2)
The proposed amendments increase all fees identified in the rules by 3.5%.
Specifically, these amendments increase the base certification fee described in
Part 3.02 to $517.50; increase all scoping fees described in Parts 3.02(a) – (e) by
that same 3.5% percentage; increase the flat-rate inspection fee described in
Part 3.04(a) to $155.25 per inspection; and increase the per hour inspection fee
described in Part 3.04(b) to $46.58 per hour. This 3.5% increase is consistent
with the annual inflation rate published by the Office of State Planning and
Budgeting.
to $517.50; increase all scoping fees described in Parts 3.02(a) – (e) by
that same 3.5% percentage; increase the flat-rate inspection fee described in
Part 3.04(a) to $155.25 per inspection; and increase the per hour inspection fee
described in Part 3.04(b) to $46.58 per hour. This 3.5% increase is consistent
with the annual inflation rate published by the Office of State Planning and
Budgeting.

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19
Editor’s Notes
History
Entire rule eff. 05/30/2009.
Rules 1-4, 9.13 eff. 01/30/2011.
Rules 2, 3, 5, 9.14 eff. 07/30/2019.
Rule 3.02, 3.04,3.05, 9.15 eff. 04/30/2026.

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Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/statutes/STATE_CO_CCR_8_CCR_1203_9. Check the current official text before relying on it. Not legal advice.