Florida Expands Sales Tax Exemptions for Emergency and Safety Items

Published on August 05, 2025

Florida Expands Sales Tax Exemptions for Emergency and Safety Image

Big News! Florida Expands Sales Tax Exemptions for Emergency & Safety Items Starting August 1

Good news for Florida residents! Beginning August 1, 2025, several essential safety and emergency-preparedness items will become permanently exempt from sales tax — not just during limited-time tax holidays. That means more savings all year long on items you may already use to keep your home and family safe.

Thanks to recent legislation (Section 46, Chapter 2025-208, Laws of Florida), this change helps make preparedness more accessible and affordable for everyone.

Florida Expands Sales Tax Exemptions for Emergency and Safety Image2

What’s Now Always Tax-Free?

You can now shop tax-free for the following items, any day of the year:

  • Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 6-volt, 9-volt)
  • All Bicycle Helmets (not just for kids anymore!)
  • Carbon Monoxide Alarms
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • Ground Anchor Systems & Tie-Down Kits
  • Insect Repellent (EPA-registered for skin use)
  • Life Jackets (U.S. Coast Guard-approved)
  • Portable Gas or Diesel Cans (5 gallons or less)
  • Portable Generators (10,000 running watts or less)
  • Smoke Detectors
  • Sunscreen (for UV protection—not cosmetic blends)
  • Waterproof Tarpaulins (1,000 sq. ft. or less)

This is a win for Florida families, helping us stay prepared without stretching our wallets.

Learn More

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