Outdoor enthusiasts are getting a break from sales taxes on some of their favorite gear until the end of the year.
Hunters and outdoor sports enthusiasts are about to get a financial break at retailers throughout Florida selling their gear.
The Hunting, Fishing and Camping Sales Tax Holiday will kick into gear in the Sunshine State beginning Sept. 1 and runs through Dec. 31. The tax relief exemption approved by the Legislature frees sales taxes from the merchandise for those pursuits.
The Florida Retail Federation (FRF) is celebrating the sales tax break because it focuses on local retailers.
“This four-month holiday is a win for Florida families and for the retailers who serve them,” said Scott Shalley, FRF President and CEO. “We’re grateful to the Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis for their continued leadership and support on tax relief for Florida families and retailers.”
The FRF represents shops and stores across the state that employ an estimated 4 million workers and account for about $357 million in economic contribution to Florida.
The Florida-centric sales tax break also allows the FRF to ramp up its campaign that steers state shoppers to local retail outlets. Find It In Florida urges residents to do their shopping at retailers close to their homes.
The sales tax exemption on hunting, fishing and camping goods covers a wide spectrum of merchandise. Camping gear that is exempt includes lanterns and flashlights under $30. Stoves, hammocks, collapsible chairs and sleeping bags under $50 get the sales taxes waived along with tents under $200.
Anglers get the tax breaks on bait and tackle under $10. Tackle boxes and bags under $30 are exempt. And rods and reels under $75 are eligible.
There are dozens of items classified as hunting gear that are exempt as well.
The Department of Revenue provides a complete list of all items that are under the tax break umbrella. Not all items under the headings of camping, hunting and fishing are exempt from the sales taxes. The tax holiday exemption does not apply to those items that are being rented or sold for commercial use or resale.
