Wood Preservation in Texas

Wood Preservation Services in Texas

Wood preservation is one of the seven official license categories issued by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). The "D" category covers pest control that involves adding preservatives to wood products to extend their service life by protecting them from damage caused by insects, fungi, and marine borers. Typical products include utility poles, crossties, posts, and pilings — including retreatment of power-line poles with wood preservative pesticides and fumigants.

This is an industrial category serving utility, railroad, and timber operations. It is distinct from the Termite Control (T) category, which covers treatment of wood-destroying insects in buildings. Contractors treating poles or crossties must hold the D category on both the business license and the supervising certified applicator's license.

Typical Wood Preservation Work

• Pressure treatment of utility poles, fence posts, and crossties
• Retreatment of in-service power-line poles against decay and insects
• Protection of marine pilings and timbers from borers
• Industrial mill and treating-plant operations

Wood Preservation — FAQ

Is wood preservation the same as termite treatment?

No. Termite Control (T) covers inspection and treatment of buildings for termites and other wood-destroying insects. Wood Preservation (D) covers industrial preservative treatment of wood products like poles and crossties. A company needs the category matching the actual work.

Who regulates wood preservation in Texas?

The Texas Department of Agriculture licenses wood preservation under the Structural Pest Control Service (4 TAC §7.124). Applicators must pass the category examination, and businesses must carry the category on their TPCL.