Florida Special Needs Shelters: What You Need to Know
By: Deborah Dietz
Hurricane Season is June – November
Be prepared! If you or a loved one has a disability, it’s important to know your shelter options and plan ahead.
Two Types of Shelters in Florida:
- General Population Shelters:
Open to everyone. Service animals are allowed. Some are pet-friendly, but pets must be crated and have rabies certificates. No pre-registration needed. - Special Needs Shelters:
Designed for people with medical needs beyond basic first aid (e.g., electricity for medical equipment, help with daily tasks, etc.).
Staffed with medical professionals and have backup power. One caregiver may stay.
Pre-registration is required. Contact your local emergency management office to apply.
Who Qualifies for Special Needs Shelters?
People who:
- Are homebound or have ongoing medical conditions
- Need electricity for life-saving devices
- Are on dialysis or require ventilators
- Are pregnant (within 6 weeks of due date)
What to Bring to the Special Needs Shelter:
- Medications and medical equipment (with batteries/power cords)
- Personal contact list
- Medical list
- Clothing, hygiene items, and important documents
- Special dietary foods
Animals at a Special Needs Shelter:
- Service animals allowed (bring supplies and check local rules)
- Emotional support animals are usually housed separately (check local rules)
- Pets are not allowed
Find Your Local Emergency Management Office:
- Visit your county’s emergency management website
- Examples:
- Miami-Dade: Emergency & Evacuation Assistance Program
- Broward: Vulnerable Population Registry
Don’t Wait – Register Now.
Spaces are limited and may fill up fast during a storm.
Important Note: Registry ≠ Shelter Admission — You still need to apply locally to stay in a shelter. The Florida Special Needs Registry is different than registration at a Special Needs Shelter.
Resources:
