What is a Local State of Emergency and directives?

Local jurisdictions have the authority to declare, by resolution, a local state of emergency pursuant to Section 252.38(3)(a)5., Florida Statutes. A local state of emergency directive can be initiated by a county at any time, but in most cases, it should be declared prior to requesting a response or recovery assistance from the state. Declaring a local state of emergency informs state decision-makers that an emergency situation exists beyond the response or recovery capabilities of the local jurisdiction.

The enactment of such a directive will enable counties to:

  • Initiate local emergency preparedness and response actions
  • Request state assistance, if needed
  • Invoke emergency-related mutual-aid assistance
  • Waive the procedures and formalities otherwise required of the political subdivision by law, to respond to the emergency

Show All Answers

1. What is Emergency Management?
2. Does Monroe County have a Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program?
3. What is the "Storm Ready" Program?
4. What is a Local State of Emergency and directives?