Fire Assessment Fee Hardship Program

What is the Fire Assessment Fee Hardship Program?

City Council adopted Resolution No. 2020-70, which established a recurring Fire Assessment Fee Hardship Program to aid residential property owners who meet certain eligibility criteria with paying the City’s annual Fire Services Special Assessment.  Approved residential property owners are deemed responsible for the first $50.00 of the Fire Assessment Fee and, upon approval, will be due a reimbursement in that amount of the Fire Assessment Fee paid over $50.00.  The relief provided by the hardship program for Fiscal Year 2022-23 totals $159.00.

How does the Fire Assessment Fee Hardship Program work and when can I apply?

Homeowners pay their property tax bill in full and then file their application and supporting documentation to the City Manager's Office prior to March 31, 2023.

Fire Assessment Fee Hardship Application for FY 2022-23

To qualify for hardship assistance: 

1. An applicant must be the owner(s) of the residential property and entitled to a homestead exemption pursuant to the requirements of Florida Statutes, Chapter 196. 
2. The owner(s) shall have the present intent to maintain the residential property as his/her/their permanent residence throughout the remainder of the Fiscal Year for which the assessment is imposed. 
3. The total household income of all lawful occupants of the property shall be less than or equal to 50% of the 2022 Income Limits Documentation System established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, as adjusted for family size. The following chart sets forth the total household income which cannot be exceeded for the property owner(s) to be eligible for hardship assistance: