Pest Detection Program

The County's Pest Detection program traps for exotic fruit flies and insects at over 9,000 sites throughout San Diego to help protect our local environment and agriculture from harmful invasive pests. Early detection allows eradication efforts to begin before pests multiply and spread, becoming economically and technically impossible to control. 

Public participation is crucial to the success of this program, since County ag officials rely on the goodwill of residents to allow traps on their properties. Traps are placed free of charge and checked every few weeks, depending on the type of trap. Trap inspections usually take just a few minutes with no disruption to the property. Homeowners are not restricted in the use of their fruit or care of their trees while traps are present.

Typical trapping sites include fruit trees or shade trees within 30 feet of fruit trees. Other trap hosts may include roses, turf, and landscape ornamental plants.

If you're interested in hosting traps on your property to help in the fight against pests, learn more or contact us at AWM.pd@sdcounty.ca.gov or 1-800-300-TRAP (8727) or (858) 614-7770.