Consumer Services

Miami-Dade County to Launch Pain Clinics Registration Program

Starting October 1, 2011, the Sustainability, Planning and Economic Enhancement Department (SPEED) will launch the county's pain clinic registration program.

• Pain Management Clinics
• License Application Information and Forms

What You Should Know Before Hiring a Professional Mover

Did you know that Consumer Services regulates moving companies that operate in Miami-Dade? This means that if you're moving from Miami-Dade County to another part of Miami-Dade, Broward or Palm Beach counties, or if you're coming from Broward or Palm Beach counties to Miami-Dade, your move is covered by the Miami-Dade County Moving Ordinance. However, if you're leaving South Florida, or coming from out of state, then your move is not regulated by Miami-Dade's Moving Ordinance. 

• Read more 

Learn to solve your disputes at small claims court clinics

Consumer Services continues its 2012 series of Small Claims Court Clinics.

• See all dates 

Miami Green Bytes

See the December Issue of "Miami Bytes" Newsletter from the Miami-Dade County Extension Office for Gardeners, Arborists, and Landscapers.

• More information 

Attention Taxi Chauffeurs, Consumer Services will be conducting a lottery to distribute ten (10) taxicab medallions

Beginning September 1, 2011 Consumer Services will be accepting applications for the 2011 Taxi Medallion Lottery. Taxi chauffeurs interested in participating in the lottery are strongly encouraged to read the lottery information package to familiarize themselves with the rules and requirements of the lottery prior to submitting an application.

• For more information
• 2011 Taxi Lottery Info Pkg 
• 2011 Application 

Taxicab Fuel Surcharge Are Still In Effect

Consumer Services has announced that beginning Tuesday, March 29, 2011, taxicab drivers will be allowed to add a $1.00 fuel surcharge to help offset the rising cost of fuel. 

• Click here for more information

Get the Facts on Towing

Did you know that the towing industry in Miami-Dade County is licensed and regulated by Consumer Services?

The Miami-Dade County Towing Ordinance requires all persons and businesses engaged in the recovery, towing or removal of vehicles to be licensed by the CSD. The Ordinance requires all towers to meet safety equipment requirements, maintain adequate insurance coverage, and comply with vehicle signage, identification and advertising requirements.

Starting a Business in Miami-Dade County

All businesses must have the proper registrations, licenses and or permits before they can legally open for business.  Businesses are subject to municipal, county, state, and federal requirements.  Regulations vary by industry, so it's very important to understand the licensing rules where your business is located. Failing to comply with licensing and permitting regulations can result in you having to spend time and money to correct the problem and can also lead to expensive fines, putting your business at serious risk.

• Click here for more information

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The Earned Income Tax Credit or the EITC is a refundable federal income tax credit for low to moderate income working individuals and families.

• Click here for more information

Identity Theft: Don’t Become a Victim

Having your identity stolen is one of the most difficult things to recover from. Victims spend hundreds of dollars and many days repairing damage to their good name and credit record. Some consumers victimized by identity theft may lose out on job opportunities, or be denied loans for education, housing or cars because of negative information on their credit reports. Learn how to avoid identity theft and what to do if your identity is stolen.

• Click here for details

Miami-Dade Consumer Services Sues DIRECTV

DIRECTV is accused of running false and misleading advertisements about the cost of their service packages and equipment, and failing to properly disclose the terms of their contracts.

• Read the press release

Stop throwing money down the drain

Now you can sign up to receive a free irrigation assessment and free water-saving devices, specifically soil moisture sensors, through the Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Division's Urban Conservation Unit. Not only will you conserve precious water, but you will also save money.

• Read the press release

Airport Regional Taxi Service (ARTS) program opportunity

Taxicab medallion owners wanted to provide ARTS service.  Applications now being accepted until the required number of vehicles have been obtained.  Certain rules apply.

• Download the application 
• Download the certification form 

Smart Gardening: Water your plants using a cheap and environmentally friendly rain barrel

Let Mother Nature do your irrigation work by capturing free rain water in a barrel. The Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension offers Rain Barrel Workshops where you can learn how to conserve water and reduce your water bill.

• Watch the Green Scene video 
• Sign up for the next workshop
• Rain Barrel FAQs

Save your home the right way

Don't let others prey on your fear of losing your home.  If you're having trouble making mortgage payments, contact your loan servicer to discuss your options as soon as possible.  Learn about your rights and how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

• Watch the video in English 
• Video en Español
• Foreclosure Rescue & Loan Modification Assistance Guide 
• Get the facts on preventing foreclosure
• Foreclosure Assistance brochure