As autumn arrives, so do dozens of new Florida laws going into effect October 1, 2025. Some may affect your rights in court, your defenses, or your obligations. Below are several of the more significant changes — and what they could mean for you.
1. Flood Risk Disclosures for Renters (SB 948)
- Landlords will now be required to disclose flood risk and past flooding incidents to prospective tenants, similar to requirements for home sales.
For our clients in landlord/tenant and real property litigation, this adds a new basis for tenant claims if disclosures are omitted.
2. Trooper’s Law – Animal Protection During Disasters (SB 150)
- Effective October 1, persons who leave dogs restrained outdoors during a natural disaster (or abandon them) face a third-degree felony.
3. Stricter Traffic & Vehicle Laws (HB 253, HB 687, HB 113)
- HB 253: It becomes a third-degree felony to use aftermarket lighting that mimics law enforcement, or to impersonate a police vehicle with lights.
- HB 687 (“Trenton’s Law”): In DUI or boating under the influence manslaughter/vehicular homicide cases, repeat offenders face harsher penalties.
- HB 113: Law evasion / fleeing law enforcement carries increased penalties.
In criminal defense and traffic violation cases, these changes raise the stakes. It’s critical to review any charges under the new enhanced penalty rules.
4. “Glitch Bill” (SB 576 / HB 157) — Service of Process Revisions
- The legislative “Glitch Bill” refines prior 2022 changes to Florida’s service of process statutes, clarifying requirements for substituted service, service on businesses in receivership, and long-arm service. Much of this becomes effective October 1.
For civil litigation and business cases, these changes impact how and when service is valid. Mistakes could lead to default judgments being set aside.
5. End of the Business Rent Tax
- Florida is eliminating the business rent tax (sometimes called the “commercial lease tax”) on October 1 after decades in effect.
This is potentially meaningful in commercial leasing, business litigation, and landlord/tenant matters involving commercial property.
6. Enhanced Protections for Court Personnel (HB 1049)
- New penalties for harassing, retaliating against, or tampering with court officials take effect.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Tenants & Landlords:
- If you’re renting or leasing property, ask about (or provide) the new flood risk disclosure forms before signing anything new.
- If you’re already in a lease, know that you may have new rights if your landlord failed to disclose past flooding.
- Drivers & Vehicle Owners:
- Check your vehicle for any aftermarket lights or features — what may have been a ticket before could now be a felony offense.
- If you face a DUI or serious traffic charge, be aware that penalties are now tougher, making early legal advice more important than ever.
- Pet Owners:
- If you have animals, especially dogs, know that leaving them tethered outside during a hurricane or storm could now be treated as a serious crime. Make an emergency plan for your pets.
- Business Owners & Commercial Tenants:
- Good news: Florida’s business rent tax is officially gone. Review your lease and talk with your landlord or accountant about how this change could lower your overhead.
- Anyone in Litigation or Planning Ahead:
- The rules for serving lawsuits and court papers have changed. If you’re suing or being sued, mistakes in service can affect your case — make sure your attorney is following the updated law.
- If you’re involved in an estate, guardianship, or probate matter, these changes may also touch on how notices and filings must be handled.
👉 If you’re unsure how these updates affect you — whether as a renter, driver, pet owner, or business owner — now is the time to ask questions. Laws are constantly changing, and a small misstep can create big problems.
At Kampf, Inman & Associates, PAwe’ve built our practice on guiding clients through Florida’s shifting legal landscape. From civil litigation and criminal defense to probate, guardianship, estate planning, and business disputes, our team has the knowledge and experience to help you understand your rights and protect your interests.
⚖️ When the law changes, we make sure you’re prepared.