diff --git a/lemur/notifications/service.py b/lemur/notifications/service.py
index 81d69625..400f5cac 100644
--- a/lemur/notifications/service.py
+++ b/lemur/notifications/service.py
@@ -160,6 +160,10 @@ def _is_eligible_for_notifications(cert):
     :param cert:
     :return:
     """
+    # inactive certificates are not notified.
+    if not cert.active:
+        return
+
     now = arrow.utcnow()
     days = (cert.not_after - now.naive).days