If you have only recently called Palm City home, we welcome you. It is our hope that this guide provides you with the information you need to become connected to your community. As a new resident, there are certain requirements mandated by federal, state and local law that newcomers must comply with to become permanent residents. The following information will help you meet all requirements and get settled into your new home.

Under Florida law, you automatically establish residency when being employed, enrolling children in school or registering to vote. You may document your residency by obtaining a notarized Declaration of Domicile from the Clerk of the Circuit Court, which is located at the Courthouse Complex, 100 E. Ocean Blvd., in Stuart. For more information, call 772-288-5551.

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You must obtain a Florida Driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency. You will be required to take the vision and written exam, even if you already have a license from another state. You must have two forms of identification to prove your date of birth. Your license expires on your birthday. Florida law requires that front seat occupants in vehicles, as well as anyone under 18, wear seat belts. Children six years and older must wear seat belts wherever they are seated, while children ages four and five may use seat belts or a federally approved restraint seat. Children under four must be in a federally approved child restraint seat. Violators will be fined. The driver is responsible for passengers and Florida law also prohibits any open container of alcoholic beverage in the vehicle. Driver’s License Offices are located at 3485 SE Willoughby Boulevard in Stuart, 11734 SE Federal Highway in Hobe Sound and 3003 SW Martin Downs Boulevard in Palm City. Please note that road tests are given only at the Hobe Sound office. For more information, call 772-546-7097.

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When you establish residency in Florida, you also must obtain Florida license plates or tags for your vehicle(s). A Florida license tag is required within ten days of establishing residency, employment or a child’s enrollment in school in Florida. Florida is a no-fault insurance state. Personal injury protection and liability coverage is required by law. Individuals registering vehicles must pay an initial registration fee of $100, a tag fee and a title charge. Bring your title, registration and proof of insurance to the Tag Office at the Tax Collector’s Office, at which time an odometer reading will also be taken. In addition to the standard tags, a number of specialty tags are available at an additional charge. Your tag expires on your birthday. Tax Collector’s Office 3485 SE Willoughby Boulevard Stuart, FL 34994, 772-288-5600

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Motorboats and sailboats used in Florida waters, unless registered in another state and used less than 90 days, must be registered. Call the Tax Collector’s Office at 772-288-5600 for details.

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Pick up a change of address kit from your local Post Office. If you do not have a forwarding address, the Post Office will allow general delivery up to 30 days. The Post Office must be notified to start delivery at a new address. Post Office box rentals are available at the Post Office or from private companies in the area.

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There are several utility companies serving Palm City for electricity, telephone, water, cable/ wireless television and trash pickup. Some utilities will arrange service over the phone, while others require a visit to their offices. Ask if you can obtain a waiver of deposit by bringing a letter of reference from your current utility company.

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As a newcomer to Florida, there may be differences in tax laws, e.g. there is no State Inheritance Tax. There is also no State Income Tax, but you should consult your attorney, tax advisor or Trust Officer to take advantage of any tax savings. For additional information on any Florida tax, contact: Florida Department of Revenue 900 Prima Vista Boulevard, Ste. 300, Port St. Lucie, 800-352-3671

Sales Tax
The State Sales Tax is six and a half (6.5%) of the total amount of any sale. However, medicines, medical services and most food items are exempt.

Tangible Tax
Business property is subject to Florida’s Tangible Tax, which includes everything used in the performance of your business except real estate. All businesses, whether individuals, partnerships or corporations, which control, manage, lease or own any tangible personal property such as furniture, equipment, computers, machines, etc., must file a Tangible Tax Return prior to April 1 of each year. Failure to do so will result in a fine.

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All Dogs and cats must be licensed. To obtain a license, you may obtain the tag at time of rabies vaccination from your local veterinarian.

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