Florida

FL · State guide

An ALF license is required to provide housing, meals and one or more personal services for more than 24 hours to one or more adults unrelated to the owner or administrator. There is no minimum size. ALFs hold a standard license and may add specialty licenses for extended congregate care, limited nursing services or limited mental health. Adult family-care homes are a separate category in which the provider lives in the home and serves up to 5 residents. Parts of the ALF rules (59A-36) were updated in 2024-2026, including amendments effective June 11, 2025, November 27, 2025 and September 17, 2026.

License categories

Assisted living facility (standard; specialty licenses: ECC, LNS, LMH)
Adult family-care home

Key laws

Fla. Stat. ch. 429, Part I (§ 429.02 definitions) and Part II

Assisted Living Facilities; Adult Family-Care Homes
Official text →

Fla. Admin. Code ch. 59A-36

Assisted Living Facility
Official text →

Fla. Admin. Code ch. 59A-37

Adult Family Care Homes
Official text →

Key requirements

ALF administrators must complete core training and pass the competency test within 90 days of employment, and complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years
Level 2 fingerprint-based background screening through AHCA's Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse
New staff must complete at least 2 hours of preservice orientation before interacting with residents
Licensure under Fla. Stat. ch. 408 Part II (general licensing) and 59A-35, plus ALF- or AFCH-specific rules