The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services was established in 1868 when the Office of Commissioner of Immigration was created. The mission, structure and name of the office evolved over time. In 1969, the Florida Legislature gave the agency the name it bears today.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services was established in 1868 when the Office of Commissioner of Immigration was created. The mission, structure and name of the office evolved over time.

• 1868: The Florida Constitution of 1868 created the Office of Commissioner of Immigration. The Commissioner of Immigration was empowered to attract settlers to Florida.
• 1871: The Constitution was amended consolidating the Offices of Surveyor General and Commissioner of Immigration as the new Commissioner of Lands and Immigration.
• 1885: The Constitution was revised renaming the Commissioner of Lands and Immigration as the Commissioner of Agriculture. 
• 1969: The Florida Legislature reorganized the department and established the Division of Consumer Services and the Division of Forestry. The Legislature renamed the department to include its new responsibilities: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.