The Plant Protection Division is responsible for implementing a wide range of rules and regulations. The division is the regulatory agency responsible for protecting Alabama's native and commercially grown plants from harmful pests and diseases. Protecting Alabama’s apiary (beekeeping) industry is also covered by the division.

A key component of the Plant Protection Division mission is the early detection, control and/or eradication of harmful exotic plant pest and noxious weed introductions. In addition to state and local agencies, the Plant Protection Division works cooperatively with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, United States Department of Agriculture and Department of Homeland Security.