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1. How many residents are within the City limits?

There are approximately 14,000 residents within the City of Palmetto.

2. When was the City incorporated?

1897

3. How many square miles are within the City limits?

Approximately 7 square miles

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1. Can I speak at a City Commission meeting?

Yes. You may sign up to speak on any non-agenda item at the beginning of each Commission meeting. You may also speak on any item on the agenda as it is presented for discussion by the Commission. Public comment is limited to two minutes unless an extension is approved by Commission.

2. How are City Commission meetings conducted?

Meetings will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Section 286.011, Florida Statutes, the Government in the Sunshine Act.

3. What is the Government in the Sunshine Act?

The Government in the Sunshine Act prohibits communication between Commissioners outside of a public meeting on any matter which shall be the subject of a commission action. The Act also requires public noticing of all meetings, open public attendance at meetings, and meeting locations where public access is reasonably available.

4. What are the qualifications for a commissioner's seat?

The three ward Commissioners must each be an Elector. Additionally, they shall each have been a Legal Resident of the City for a minimum of three hundred and sixty-five (365) consecutive days immediately prior to the last day of qualifying for election to the office being sought and have been a Legal Resident of the ward from which they are to be elected for a minimum of one hundred and eighty (180) consecutive days immediately prior to the last day of qualifying for election to the office sought.

The two at-large Commissioners must each be an Elector and have been a Legal Resident of the City for a minimum of three hundred and sixty-five (365) consecutive days immediately prior to the last day of qualifying for election to the office sought.

Commissioners shall assume office on the date of the first Commission meeting following their election and shall continue to be a Legal Resident and Elector of the City during their term of office. The term of office is four years.

5. What is the definition of a legal resident?

Legal Resident means a person who has established a permanent residence, as defined as that place where a person has his or her true, fixed and permanent home and principal establishment to which, whenever absent, he or she has the intention of returning, within the corporate limits of the City of Palmetto. A person may have only one permanent residence at one time and, once a permanent residence is established outside of the City, it is presumed to continue until the person shows that a change has occurred.

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1. How do I make a public records request?

Public records request can be submitted to the City Clerk in a verbal or in written format.
Requested documents can be made available for your review. However, if you wish to receive copies of any of the documents, a fee of $0.15 (single-sided) or $0.20 (double-sided) will apply.

2. How long does it take to receive information related to a public records request?

It depends. Generally, most requests can be processed within 48 hours. However, more extensive requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and you will be notified as to the estimated time to process your request.

3. How do I request a copy of the agenda or minutes?

All agendas and minutes are posted on the website.

4. How do I request a lien search

Effective June 14, 2021, the City of Palmetto will be implementing a fee of $50.00 for Municipal Lien Information and Estoppel letters.

 

All lien requests/estoppel requests will be directed to Orange Data at https://order.orangelien.com.

 

We are partnering with Orange Data to process estoppel searches/requests (or lien requests) from title companies, closing agents and others obtaining information about outstanding debt owed to the City.

 

We will no longer be responding to estoppel requests. Orange Data will be providing timely, enhanced professional quality reports.

 

Please establish an account with Orange Data today! Visit https://order.orangelien.com to register your business.

 

To ensure a clear title upon transfer of ownership of a property, a lien must be paid prior to the transfer. Orange Data will only report on liens issued by the City of Palmetto.  A full search should still be made by the title company or real estate attorney.

 

With any questions on this process please contact Orange Data directly at 407-965-4245 or via email info@orangelien.com.

 

PLEASE NOTE: The fee does not cover additional research by the Building Department to close out open or expired permits.

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1. Why does my car have an abandoned property sticker on the windshield?

Florida statutes require all vehicles to be operative and display a current license plate.

2. Do I need a permit to hold a garage sale?

Yes, a permit is required and garage sales are limited to no more than one sale at a residence every six months. Permits are available free of charge at Palmetto City Hall. Other restrictions apply.

3. How are meetings conducted?

Meetings will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Section 286.011, Florida Statutes, the Government in the Sunshine Act.

4. What is the Government in the Sunshine Act?

The Government in the Sunshine Act prohibits communication between board members outside of a public meeting on any matter which shall be the subject of a board action. The Act also requires public noticing of all meetings, open public attendance at meetings, and meeting locations where public access is reasonably available.

5. How do I volunteer to serve on the Code Enforcement Board?

Download and complete a Board Member Application and submit it, with a resume if available, to the office of the Mayor at 516 8th Avenue West, Palmetto, FL 34221. You may also email it to mayor@palmettofl.org.

6. What is the term of an appointment?

A term is for two years.

7. What forms are members required to file?

Members of the Board are required to file with the Florida Commission on Ethics Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests when appointed to the board, and Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests upon resignation from the board.

8. What is the Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests, and why does it have to be completed on an annual basis?

Florida Statutes require that elected officials, appointed officials, and appointed board members that have certain advisory or investment powers must file Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests annually during the term of an appointment. Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests is filed when leaving office or an appointed position.

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1. How can I obtain the City's Utility Specifications?

Contact the Engineering Department at (941) 723-4580. CD will be provided at a cost of $25.

2. How can I obtain a copy of the city limits?

Contact the Engineering Department at (941) 723-4580. A $5 charge will be charged for a 24 x 36 plan.

3. Whom can I contact to report a street light out?

Contact Florida Power & Light Company

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1. When are vendor checks disbursed?

Vendor checks are typically disbursed on Friday afternoons after 3:00 pm. Contact Accounts Payable to determine the payment date for a specific invoice or to arrange pick-up.

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1. Who do I contact for more information?

Please call (941) 723-4580 ext. 104 or 105

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1. What is the definition of fiduciary?

A fiduciary is a person responsible for the discharge of duties with respect to the Pension Plan, solely in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries for the exclusive purpose of providing benefits and defraying reasonable expenses of administering the Plan.

2. What is the Government in the Sunshine Act?

The Government in the Sunshine Act prohibits communication between Trustees outside of a public meeting on any matter which shall be the subject of a Board action. The Act also requires public noticing of all meetings, open public attendance at meetings and meeting locations where public access is reasonably available.

3. How do I volunteer to serve on the Board of Trustees?

Download and complete an Advisory Board Application and submit it, with a resume, to the office of the Mayor, Palmetto City Hall. Advisory Board Application

4. What is the term of an appointment?

A term is for three years, with reappointment for succeeding three-year terms.

5. What is the Form 1-Statement of Financial Interests, and why does it have to be completed on an annual basis?

Florida Statutes require that elected officials, appointed officials and appointed board members that have certain advisory or investment powers must file Form 1-Statement of Financial Interests annually during the term of an appointment. Form 1F-Final Statement of Financial Interests is filed when leaving office or an appointed position.

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1. Frequently Asked Questions Headline

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1. Where can I find information about Employment Opportunities?

Under the Employment button located on left the side of the home page, you will find information about
Employment Opportunities, Job Applications and our Disability Policy and Plan.

2. Do I need to fill out an application?

Yes, and you may attach a resume.

3. Which application should I complete?

General Employee Application, unless applying for a position at the Palmetto Police Department.

4. How do I submit my application?

All applications must be submitted to the Human Resource Department either in person at:
516 8th Ave. W.
Palmetto, FL

Or via mail at:
Human Resource Department
P.O. Box 1209
Palmetto Fl 34220-1209

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1. What is the Local Business Tax?

Formerly known as “Occupational License”, the Local Business tax is a tax for the privilege of engaging in business within the jurisdiction of the local governing authority.

2. Who is required to pay the Local Business Tax?

As outlined in Article II, Section 19-26, of the City of Palmetto’s Code of Ordinances, a business tax is hereby levied on any person who maintains a permanent business location or branch office within the City for the privilege of engaging in or managing any business within the City.

3. How do I apply for the Local Business Tax?

Applications are available at City Hall, 516 8th Avenue West, Palmetto, or on the City’s website, www.palmettofl.org. All required documentation and fees are due when the application is submitted. More...

4. Am I exempt from paying the local business tax?

Certain types of businesses are exempt from paying the local business tax. These include farm, aqua cultural, grove, horticultural, floricultural, tropical piscicultural, tropical fish farm products, nonresident persons regulated by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, disabled persons, the aged, and widows with minor dependents, disabled veterans of any war or their un-remarried spouses, religious tenets, charitable organizations, occasional sales, fund raising, and mobile home setup operations. Please refer to Florida Statutes, Title XIV, Chapter 205 for a complete description of these exemptions. The website is www.leg.state.fl.us. More...

5. What is the Enterprise Zone and do I qualify for a discount?

You may qualify for a 50% discount on the local business tax annual fee if your business is located within the designated areas of the Enterprise Zone. The purpose of the Enterprise Zone is to rehabilitate, conserve or redevelop said areas of the City that exhibit extreme and unacceptable levels of poverty, unemployment, physical deterioration, and economic disinvestment. Please refer to the map included in this packet to see if you qualify for this exemption.

6. What type of Local Business Tax(es) am I required to pay?

Classifications are determined by the business being conducted. In some cases more than one tax will be required for a single location. Contact our Customer Service Department at 941-723-4570 to find out the classification of your business.

7. Does the Local Business Tax require renewal?

YES. Local Business Taxes are renewed annually based on a fiscal calendar beginning October 1st and ending on September 30th. Renewal notices are mailed to businesses beginning in July and renewal fees must be received no later than September 30th to avoid penalties.

8. I am starting a business on April 1st. Do I have to pay the full years tax?

Any business obtaining a new license from April 1st through September 30th shall only pay one half the full tax for the year. You will be required to renew by October 1st of that year paying the full annual amount every year after.

9. When will I receive my Local Business Tax Receipt?

Once your application has been received, processing usually takes less than 10 business days. The business tax receipts are mailed directly to the business address or you can arrange to pick up the business tax receipt at City Hall.

10. I am selling my business/transferring ownership. Is my license transferable?

Yes. There is a form you and the new owners will need to complete in addition to a $5.00 transfer fee. You may obtain this form online at www.palmettofl.org or at City Hall located at 516 8th Avenue West. More...

11. I am moving my business to another location. Will I need a new local business tax receipt?

Yes. You will be required to fill out a new application, complete the transfer of location form, and have an inspection of the new site. There is a $40.00 fee for the inspection and a $5.00 fee for the transfer of the new business license tax. Forms are available online at www.palmettofl.org or at City Hall located at 516 8th Avenue West. More...

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1. How are meetings conducted?

Meetings will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Section 286.011, Florida Statutes, the Government in the Sunshine Act.

2. What is the Government in the Sunshine Act?

The Government in the Sunshine Act prohibits communication between board members outside of a public meeting on any matter which shall be the subject of a board action. The Act also requires public noticing of all meetings, open public attendance at meetings, and meeting locations where public access is reasonably available.

3. How do I volunteer to serve on the Nuisance Abatement Board?

Download and complete an Advisory Board Application and submit it, with a resume, to the office of the Mayor, Palmetto City Hall.

4. What is the term of an appointment?

A term is for three years.

5. What forms are members required to file?

Members of the Nuisance Abatement Board are required to file with the Florida Commission on Ethics Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests when appointed to the board, and Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests upon resignation from the board.

6. What is the Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests, and why does it have to be completed on an annual basis?

Florida Statutes require that elected officials, appointed officials, and appointed board members that have certain advisory or investment powers must file Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests annually during the term of an appointment. Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests is filed when leaving office or an appointed position.

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1. How do I go about renting a park or City facility?

Contact the Parks Department (941) 723-4580.

2. Do I need a special function permit for my event?

Yes, if your event is held on City property and will have more than 50 people in attendance. See permit application for more information.

3. How can I hang a banner for my upcoming event?

Complete the Banner Display Request Form and submit it to the Parks Department with your banner.

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1. How are meetings conducted?

Meetings will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Section 286.011, Florida Statutes, the Government in the Sunshine Act.

2. What is the Government in the Sunshine Act?

The Government in the Sunshine Act prohibits communication between board members outside of a public meeting on any matter which shall be the subject of a board action. The Act also requires public noticing of all meetings, open public attendance at meetings, and meeting locations where public access is reasonably available.

3. How do I volunteer to serve on the P&Z Board?

Download and complete an Advisory Board Application and submit it, with a resume, to the office of the Mayor, Palmetto City Hall.

4. What is the term of an appointment?

A term is for three years. An alternate member’s appointment is for one year, with reappointment annually.

5. What can I do on my property?

This depends on the current zoning designation.

6. How does the development review process work?

There are several different types of development applications. The procedures vary depending on the application type. Each of these applications and descriptions of their applicability can be found in the Planning & Zoning Department.

7. How can I apply as a volunteer board member?

Applications considered by the P&Z Board are done so by public hearings.

8. What forms are members required to file?

Members of the Board are required to file with the Florida Commission on Ethics Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests when appointed to the board, and Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests upon resignation from the board.

9. What is the Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests, and why does it have to be completed on an annual basis?

Florida Statutes require that elected officials, appointed officials, and appointed board members that have certain advisory or investment powers must file Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests annually during the term of an appointment. Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests is filed when leaving office or an appointed position.

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1. How do I obtain a copy of a police or traffic crash report?

You may request a copy by mail: 1115 10th St. W. Palmetto, FL 34221 Enclose a check for $2 and a SASE, or in our lobby week days between 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.

For further information, click here to be redirected to the Palmetto Police Departments Records Division. 

2. How can I reclaim lost or stolen property?

Contact the Palmetto Police Department Property Officer weekdays between 8:00 am – 4:30 pm and provide proof of ownership.

For further information click here for the Palmetto Police Department Property and Evidence Division. 

3. How can I become a Palmetto Police Officer?

You must be at least 19 years of age, have a High School diploma, be of good moral character, and have successfully completed a Law Enforcement Academy. You must pass a State examination as well as a polygraph and psychological exam. For additional information, contact the Palmetto Police Department at (941) 721–2000 ext. 6103, or simply Click here for more information.

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1. How are meetings conducted?

Meetings will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of Section 286.011, Florida Statutes, the Government in the Sunshine Act.

2. What is the Government in the Sunshine Act?

The Government in the Sunshine Act prohibits communication between Trustees outside of a public meeting on any matter which shall be the subject of a Board action. The Act also requires public noticing of all meetings, open public attendance at meetings, and meeting locations where public access is reasonably available.

3. What is the definition of fiduciary?

A fiduciary is a person responsible for the discharge of duties with respect to the Pension Plan solely in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries for the exclusive purpose of providing benefits and defraying reasonable expenses of administering the Plan.

4. How do I volunteer to serve on the Board of Trustees?

Download and complete an Advisory Board Application and submit it, with a resume, to the office of the Mayor, Palmetto City Hall.

5. What is the term of an appointment?

A term is for two years.

6. What forms are members required to file?

Members of the Police Officers’ Pension Plan Board of Trustees are required to file with the Florida Commission on Ethics Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests when appointed to the board, and Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests upon resignation from the board.

7. What is the Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests, and why does it have to be completed on an annual basis?

Florida Statutes require that elected officials, appointed officials, and appointed board members that have certain advisory or investment powers must file Form 1 - Statement of Financial Interests annually during the term of an appointment. Form 1F - Final Statement of Financial Interests is filed when leaving office or an appointed position.

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1. What are the hours of operation?

The hours of operations for Parks, Water, Sewer, Water, Streets, Storm water, and Fleet are Monday - Friday 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. The hours of operation for the administration, engineering, planning, building permits are Monday - Friday 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.

2. How do I apply for a job?

Applications are available at the City Hall.

3. Where do I get my recycling bin?

Recycling bins can be requested by calling the Solid Waste Department at (941) 723-4580.

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1. How does a vendor register to do business with the City?

Complete a Bid List Request / New Vendor Form

2. How does a vendor find out about current ITBs or RFPs?

Located on the Purchasing page under Bids and Proposals.

3. Where is the Purchasing Department located?

In City Hall at 516 8th Ave. W.

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1. Why don't I have reclaim?

It is not available in all areas.

2. When will I get reclaim?

Re-claim will be offered to more areas once the budget allows for more main lines to be installed.

3. What are the hours for Reclaimed water?

Reclaimed water will be available beginning at 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. and again at 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. 7 days a week.  This availability is to follow SWFWMD recommendation for watering.  This schedule allows the water to be absorbed by the landscaping and avoids evaporation.  

Please keep in mind that while the times stated above are the scheduled availability, we still cannot guarantee reclaimed water will be available for the full 4 hours. We can only promise to keep the reclaimed water available as long as possible.

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1. If one of my services gets missed whom should I contact?

Contact the Solid Waste Division at (941) 723-4580.

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1. When do I need a Special Function Permit?

A Special Function Permit is required if:
1. Use of City streets or sidewalks is requested
2. Use of City equipment or personnel is requested
3. Promotion or sales activities are planned on City property
4. Outdoor events held on City property expecting an attendance of 75 or more
5. Indoor events planned in City buildings where no building capacity has been established

2. What is required at the time of application for a Special Function Permit?

The following fees are required at the time of application for a Special Function Permit:
1. Security deposit for rental of City facility (if applicable)
2. A general liability insuance policy naming the City as an additional insured is due at least ten days prior to the event. Insurance can be quoted and purchased through the City by completing the Special Events Application Quote Form (Exhibit B attached to permit)
3. There is no fee for the Special Function Permit.

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1. When are ditches cleaned?

Ditch cleaning is done as needed by road gang.