- December 4, 2025
A permanent statewide sales tax exemption is now in effect for disaster preparedness supplies.
The tax exemption applies to a wide variety of commonly used emergency supplies, including batteries, portable generators, fire extinguishers and waterproof tarps, a Volusia County press release said. The new Florida law allows families to save money while replenishing their disaster supply kits year-round.
The list of tax-exempt items includes:
Residents are strongly encouraged to prepare for disasters or storms well in advance, the press release said. High-demand items like gas cans, tarps, batteries, and generators often sell out quickly, leaving many scrambling in the final days leading up to a hurricane.
To build or update a disaster supply kit, visit the Florida Division of Emergency Management's resource guide at www.floridadisaster.org/kit.
