Florida Assisted Living Regulations (2025)

What families need to know about state laws, licensing, and resident rights.

Florida is a popular retirement destination, but it also has a complex system of regulations for senior living. In Florida, Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs) are regulated by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) under Chapter 429 of the Florida Statutes.

1. The Four Types of Licenses

Unlike many states that have a single "Assisted Living" license, Florida facilities may hold one standard license plus three specialty licenses. Knowing which license a facility holds tells you exactly what care they can (and cannot) provide.

Standard License

The baseline license. Facilities provide housing, meals, and assistance with daily activities (bathing, dressing). They manage medications but cannot provide significant nursing care.

LNS (Limited Nursing Services)

Allows the facility to provide acts that go beyond standard care, such as applying heat/ice, cutting toenails for diabetics, or changing simple dressings, performed by licensed nurses.

ECC (Extended Congregate Care)

The highest level of AL care. Allows residents to "age in place" longer. Staff can perform more complex nursing tasks, often delaying the need for a nursing home.

LMH (Limited Mental Health)

Required for facilities that serve three or more mental health residents receiving OSS (Optional State Supplementation). Staff must have special training.

2. Staffing Requirements

Minimum Staffing Ratios

Florida law requires facilities to have enough staff to meet the needs of residents, but the specific hourly requirements are less strict than nursing homes. However, at least one staff member certified in CPR and First Aid must be on-site at all times.

3. Resident Rights

Under Florida law, residents have specific protections:

  • Right to Independence: To live in the least restrictive environment possible.
  • Right to Privacy: Including privacy in communication (mail, phone) and personal care.
  • Right to Be Informed: To know the cost of services and receive 45 days' notice for rate increases.
  • Right to Choose: To select their own physician and pharmacy (though facilities may have preferred providers).

4. Eviction Protections

A common fear is being "kicked out." In Florida, a facility can generally only discharge a resident if:

  • The resident is a danger to themselves or others.
  • Their medical needs exceed what the facility is licensed to provide (e.g., they need 24/7 skilled nursing and the facility only has a Standard license).
  • Non-payment of bills (with 45 days notice).

Checking a Facility's Record

You can look up any Florida facility's inspection reports on the AHCA website. Or, download our checklist to know exactly what to look for when you tour in person.

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