Florida's New Law: No Sales Tax on Hurricane Prep Supplies Starting August 1!

Volusia County, Florida, USA - Starting August 1, 2025, Florida residents can breathe a bit easier, as the Sunshine State will eliminate sales tax on a variety of essential disaster preparedness supplies. This initiative comes at a crucial time, with forecasts predicting a busy hurricane season ahead. Developed as part of the newly signed fiscal 2025-2026 budget by Governor Ron DeSantis, the permanent sales tax exemption replaces the previous two-week sales tax holidays for hurricane supplies, which limited residents’ preparation opportunities.https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/disaster/2025/07/11/new-law-eliminates-sales-tax-on-emergency-supplies/84503785007/

Included in this new tax-free shopping list are vital items such as batteries, portable generators, fire extinguishers, and insect repellent. The aim is to encourage families to build or replenish their disaster supply kits year-round, not just during the high-alert hurricane season which runs from June 1 to November 30.https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2025/07/01/florida-sales-tax-holiday-permanent-exemption-replaces-disaster-preparedness-supplies-see-list/84427563007/

What’s on the Tax-Free List?

As Floridians gear up for the unpredictability of storm season, the items that will no longer carry a sales tax include:

• Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 6-volt, 9-volt)
• Portable generators
• Fire extinguishers
• Insect repellent
• Life jackets
• Portable gas or diesel cans (5 gallons or less)
• Smoke detection devices and carbon monoxide alarms
• Waterproof tarps (up to 1,000 square feet)
• Sunscreen
• Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits

This provision gives a leg up to families, making it easier for them to secure the tools they need to stay safe when the weather turns nasty. To delve deeper into making your disaster preparedness kit, residents can head to floridadisaster.org/kit for resources. You can also check your evacuation zone via floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone.

Expert Predictions and Advice

With the Atlantic hurricane season ramping up, Dr. Michael Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center, advises everyone to take preparation seriously. Noting that the 2025 season is expected to be above normal, he emphasizes a proactive approach to safety. So far this season, Florida has already encountered two named storms, with a third disturbance looming on the horizon as of the Fourth of July weekend.https://www.tcpalm.com/story/news/2025/07/05/florida-sales-tax-permanent-exemption-hurricane-supplies-starts-aug-1/84447581007/

With late-August typically showcasing increased storm activity, the state’s new budgeting strategy is an intelligent move to help households remain equipped without the added burden of sales tax. Floridians should take this opportunity to stock up early, ensuring they are not left scrambling as weather systems evolve. Items like bottled water and first aid kits are already tax-exempt, meaning there’s a good hand to be played when it comes to getting prepared.

As the season progresses, keeping an eye on reliable weather updates and taking action to bolster your emergency supplies can make all the difference in safety and readiness. The horizon may seem stormy, but with a little foresight, Florida residents can be well-prepped for whatever comes their way!