CERTIFICATE OF INSPECTION; PERMIT

(a) A person may not ship a citrus nursery product or citrus fruit from outside this state into this state without first filing with the department a certificate of inspection issued by the proper authority of the state in which the shipment originates. The certificate must show: (1) that the nursery product or fruit to be shipped has been produced in a county known to be free from the pests and diseases listed in Section 73.004(a) of this code; or (2) that the nursery product or fruit has been fumigated by a method approved by the department that will render it free of pest or disease infestation. (b) A transportation company or common carrier may not receive, transport, or deliver a shipment of a citrus nursery product or citrus fruit originating outside this state that does not bear: (1) a shipping tag or label showing the certificate of inspection from the originating state; and (2) a permit from the department. (c) A transportation company or common carrier shall immediately report to the department any shipment of a citrus nursery product or citrus fruit that is not accompanied by the certificate and permit required by Subsection (b) of this section.