When Was Creosote Banned?

Creosote, derived from coal tar, is widely used on utility poles, railroad ties and marine bulkheads. It is considered carcinogenic in high quantities, according to the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The ban on the sale, manufacture or use of creosote would begin on Jan. 1, 2005.

Can you still buy creosote?

Traditional Creosote can only be sold to Professional Users.

However, the product is still available for sale to trades-people. This means the traditional user such as the agricultural community, builders, etc. are still able to purchase Coal Tar Creosote, providing they do not resell to the general householder.

When did they ban creosote?

Consumer use of creosote has been banned since 2003. The Commission's new decision amends the Biocides Directive and stems from a risk assessment of the effects of creosote on human health and the environment.