Common Issues Regarding Special Districts

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FloridaCommerce is responsible for maintaining the Official List of Special Districts and for enforcing the provisions of Chapter 189, Florida Statutes, the Uniform Special District Accountability Act, where applicable, when directed by the Joint Legislative Auditing Committee, or when specifically directed to in statute. The department does not have authority to enforce any other provisions of law related to special districts and their day-to-day operations. Therefore, we provide you with the following resources that have been useful to others who have had questions or concerns regarding a special district.

• Reach out to the special district's registered agent, manager, or one or more governing body members. To find contact information for your special district, see the Official List of Special Districts (list 4, Profiles).
• Special districts meeting the financial threshold in section 218.39(1), Florida Statutes, are required to conduct a financial audit by an independent certified public accountant. Review the special district's latest financial audit to find out more information regarding the special district: Florida Auditor General - Special Districts.
• Review the special district's charter on the special districts official website (see the Official List of Special Districts, list 2, Website Links), which requires the special district to undertake certain activities to ensure the district complies with its purposes, functions and missions, along with local requirements such as zoning and permitting.
• Reach out to the appropriate oversight entity that has authority to review the special district for general oversight purposes. For more information, see section 189.068, Florida Statutes - Special districts; authority for oversight; general oversight review process.
• Contact local law enforcement if you have concerns about criminal activity.
• Contact your local elected state attorney if you have concerns about a possible violation of open meetings and public records law.
• Contact the Florida Commission on Ethics if you have concerns about a possible violation of Florida's ethics laws.
• Contact your state House and Senate representatives to discuss your concerns (see Find Your Elected Officials in Florida and Effective Communication With a Legislator).

FloridaCommerce does not provide legal opinions or advice to private individuals. The information provided here is not intended as legal advice. Please consult a private attorney if you need legal assistance. The Florida Bar's Lawyer Referral Service can help you find a private attorney in your area who handles the type of case you describe. If you need low-cost or free legal assistance, please visit the Florida Bar's Pro Bono and Legal Aid webpage for more information.

For additional information, see Special District Accountability and Oversight and Special District Resources and Contacts.