Yes, it’s true. No more tax free holiday...it’s forever.

As of August 1, 2025, Florida has implemented a permanent sales tax exemption on certain disaster preparedness supplies. This new policy eliminates the need to wait for limited-time tax holidays and makes it easier and more affordable for Floridians to purchase essential items year-round.

This change was part of Florida’s fiscal 2025-2026 budget, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis. The move replaces the previous temporary sales tax holidays that residents had grown accustomed to.

Examples of items that are now permanently exempt from sales tax include:

• Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 6-volt, and 9-volt)
• Portable generators (10,000 running watts or less)
• Tarps (1,000 square feet or less)
• Portable gas cans (5 gallons or less)
• Ground anchor systems and tie-down kits
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Fire extinguishers
• U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets
• Sunscreen (excludes cosmetics or products not primarily intended for UV protection)
• Insect repellent
• Bicycle helmets (all bicycle helmets are now exempt, previously only youth helmets were) 

It’s important to remember that bottled water, first aid kits, and many food items are already tax-free when purchased at a grocery store.