06/16/2026
Here’s some great information on New Florida Laws being implemented this summer
🇺🇸 TOP FLORIDA LAWS TAKING EFFECT JULY 1, 2026
What Pinellas County Residents Should Know
More than 100 new Florida laws take effect July 1. Here are some of the most significant changes likely to affect residents of Pinellas County and Tampa Bay:
🏠 Affordable Housing Expansion (HB 1389)
Florida continues expanding the Live Local Act. Cities and counties will have fewer options to restrict certain qualifying affordable housing and mixed-use residential developments. Supporters say it will increase housing supply and affordability. Critics argue it further limits local government control over development decisions.
🏗️ Infill Redevelopment Act (SB 1434)
Creates a new framework for redevelopment of certain underutilized and environmentally impacted properties. The law streamlines approvals and limits some local barriers to residential redevelopment. While the bill is primarily aimed at larger urban counties, it reflects the Legislature’s continuing effort to increase housing production and reduce local restrictions on development.
🏡 Small Home Improvement Projects Get Easier (HB 803)
Many single-family home projects under $7,500 will no longer require a building permit. Structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas work, and projects in flood hazard areas are still subject to permitting requirements. This could simplify many small homeowner projects.
📹 Code Enforcement Body Cameras (SB 504 & SB 506)
Local governments that utilize body cameras for code enforcement officers must establish policies governing recording, storage, and use of footage. Additional privacy protections were also created for certain recordings.
🚨 Repeat Traffic Offenders (HB 35)
Driving without a valid license now counts toward Habitual Traffic Offender status, increasing penalties for repeat offenders.
🏫 School Property Accountability (SB 824)
School districts must inventory unused properties annually and report them to state officials, potentially creating opportunities for future educational or community uses.
👩🏫 Teacher Mentoring Program (SB 182)
Experienced teachers can be placed in struggling schools to improve student outcomes and provide mentoring for newer educators.
🏥 Human Trafficking Training (SB 340)
Nursing students must complete human trafficking awareness training before licensure.
🏠 Housing for Veterans (SB 1602)
Creates incentives to help veterans obtain stable housing through partnerships with landlords.
🛡️ Security at Houses of Worship (SB 52)
Clarifies that volunteer armed security personnel at churches and other houses of worship are exempt from certain state security licensing requirements.
💜 Domestic Violence Protections (HB 277)
Strengthens penalties for repeat offenders and expands assistance available to victims.
📌 What This Means for Pinellas County
The biggest themes from the 2026 Legislature are:
✅ More housing and redevelopment
✅ Faster permitting and construction processes
✅ Less local control over certain development decisions
✅ Increased public safety penalties
✅ Additional protections for victims and vulnerable populations
✅ Expanded support for veterans and schools
I encourage everyone to review the new laws and stay informed about changes that may affect our community.
View all laws taking effect July 1, 2026:
https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Laws/2026
