(a) General rule.--If the secretary determines that a serious pest situation exists in any part of this Commonwealth, any necessary eradication or control measures may be taken. Prior to carrying out any treatment procedures, the department shall notify the property owner in writing. Any agent of the department is authorized to enter the premises during reasonable hours to carry out the eradication or control measures.

(b) Treatment orders.--If the department finds a pest situation that does not justify the procedures specified in subsection (a), it may issue, in writing to the owner or person in charge, a treatment order. The treatment order shall describe the pest situation that exists and prescribe the required control or eradication measures and the date by which control must be completed. The premises shall be under quarantine until the control or eradication measures as specified have been completed and approved by the department. The department may issue a treatment order if any abandoned crops or noncultivated plants constitute a reservoir for the pest.

(c) Noncompliance.--If the owner or person in charge does not comply with the treatment order, the person having received the treatment order shall be in violation of this act. The department may carry out the control measures, and all expenses associated with the treatment shall be paid to the department by the person failing to comply with the treatment order.