FDACS issues annual permits to fair associations to produce an annual fair and/or exposition.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is responsible for issuing annual permits to fair associations that are organized under Chapter 616, Florida Statutes (F.S.).
The purpose of fair associations is to produce an annual fair and/or exposition for the benefit and development of the educational, agricultural, horticultural, livestock, charitable, historical, civic, cultural, scientific and other resources of the geographical area the fair or exposition represents and serves.
To ensure successful and compliant events, FDACS issues permits to fair associations operating under Chapter 616, F.S., and Rule 5H-23, Florida Administrative Code.
Important Deadlines
Charter Review and Approval
New fair associations must submit their proposed charter to FDACS for review and approval. Subsequent changes to the charter also require FDACS review and approval.
Application Timeline and Process Overview
Follow these steps to apply for a fair permit:
- Submit Fair Data Sheet [ Adobe PDF Document ] by June 15.
- Complete the application. Submit a completed Application for Fair Permit [ Adobe PDF Document ] (FDACS-06100), signed and notarized, at least three months prior to the event.
- Include Affidavit for Midway Contract [ Adobe PDF Document ]. Provide a notarized affidavit certifying a contract with the central amusement company (if applicable).
- Pay the permit fee. Pay your permit fee online or by mailing a check to: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Mayo Building, 407 South Calhoun Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32399.
- Submit required documents:
- Proof of liability insurance for both the midway company (minimum $1 million) and the fair association (minimum $300,000 per occurrence).
- A copy of the most recent premium list of exhibitor awards.
- Certified financial statements or reviews, depending on attendance size.
- Copy of the association charter and by-laws with the latest amendments.
- A current list of board members with contact information.
- Copies of letters sent to fair associations within 50 miles of your event location.
Permit Fees
Permit fees are calculated based on the previous year's attendance:
| Attendance | Permit Fee |
|---|
| New Fair | $200 |
| Under 25,000 | $200 |
| 25,000-100,000 | $275 |
| Over 100,000 | $350 |
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is responsible for issuing annual permits for county fairs and livestock shows.
