Easiest way to become a state resident is to file a Declaration of Domicile. There is not minimum length of time you must reside in the state to be declared a resident. Sarasota County residents should contact the Sarasota County Clerk of Circuit Courts at 362-4066.

You may register to vote when you receive or renew your driver's license or at several other convenient locations. Call the Supervisor of Elections office in Sarasota County call 951-5307

Newcomers must register their vehicles within 10 days of gaining employment or enrolling their children in school. To register, bring your driver's license, proof of Florida automobile insurance, vehicle title and prior registration. If lien holder is holding your title, bring your payment book or lien holder's name and address and your account number. The Sarasota County Tax Collector's office number is 861-8300.

New residents have 30 days to apply for a Florida driver's license. State law requires that you first register your vehicle with the tax collector. Proof of this registration, your out-of-state license and your social security card must be shown to the Dept. of Motor Vehicles. For more information on Sarasota County call 361-6217. Compulsory no-fault insurance or personal injury protection insurance is required on all private passenger and commercial motor vehicles registered and licensed in Florida, as well as on automobiles of non-residents who have been physically in the state for more than 90 days during the preceding year.

Florida residents are eligible to declare the first $25,000 of their home's value as exempt for tax purposes, thereby reducing the ad valorem tax bill. To file for homestead exemption, you must establish residency by December 31st prior to the year you will claim the exemption. File for the exemption in January or February of the year being claimed. After March 1, an application may be filed for the following year.

For more information contact the property appraisers office; in Sarasota County call 861-8200.

Electricity: Florida Power & Light - 917-0708
Telephone: Verizon 800-483-4000
Gas: People Gas/TECO - Sarasota County - 366-4277
Water & Sewer: Siesta Key -
Cable: Comcast Cable 371-6700