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Office of Consumer Protection

Anyone could fall victim to a scam. If you are unable to resolve a problem such as defective products, erroneous bills or non-delivery of goods or services, the dedicated employees of Pinellas County Consumer Protection can help. Consumer Protection is a division of the Human Services Department.

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Quick Facts

New Pinellas County Towing Rates

“On August 15, 2023, the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners approved Ordinance 23-18, revising Chapter 122 of the code, adding clarifying language and adjusting defined terms; amending section 122-40 relating to maintenance of records and towing agreements; amending section 122-42 establishing towing rates and adjusting various fees; providing for severability; providing for areas embraced; providing for inclusion in the code; providing for an effective date.

The ordinance was filed with the Department of State and was effective on August 21, 2023.”

See new Pinellas County Towing Rates effective August 21, 2023.

The amended ordinance can be viewed here: ARTICLE II.5. – NONCONSENSUAL TOWING AND TRESPASS TOWING FROM PRIVATE PROPERTY/Code of ordinances/Pinellas County, FL/Municode Library

 

Consumer Protection Outreach

In FY24, Consumer Protection held 103 outreach events aimed at community education to help reduce opportunities for victimization along with targeted presentations on such topics as scams, identity theft, budgeting, auto buying/repair and more.

Consumer Protection also hosted two shred events, one in recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week and the second for National Consumer Protection week (NCPW).

In February, 260 residents participated in the Identity Theft Awareness Week shred event. During the 2-hour event a total of 8,100 lbs. of documents were shredded and the Sheriff’s Office collected 10 boxes of unwanted medications.

The following month, in March, 160 residents lined up to participate in the NCPW shred event during which 6,200 lbs. of documents were shredded and the Gulfport PD collected 7 boxes of unwanted medications.

Such events help safeguard people’s information, prevent fraud, and have a positive impact on the environment.

Accomplishments

Through collaborative departmental and community efforts, Consumer Protection was recently recognized for its efforts in reporting Fraud Schemes related to the Affordable Care Act. Recently, and Executive Vice President of an Insurance Brokerage plead guilty in a $133M Fraud Scheme which targeted many vulnerable, low-income individuals experiencing homelessness, unemployment and mental health and substance use diagnoses. Pinellas County Consumer Protection was one of the first entities raise these concerns to officials.

News & Stories

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March 7, 2025

Consumer Alert: Puppy scammers using old Animal Services form

Pinellas County Animal Services and Consumer Protection are advising anyone looking to purchase a puppy to be wary of sellers using an…

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We Investigate

We work to find solutions that restore fairness and ensure legal compliance. Millions of dollars have been recovered for consumers through refunds, adjustments and court-ordered restitution. For assistance with a consumer problem, the first step is to file a written complaint online, by email or at our office.

Dispute Resolution

Our goal is to assist the parties in reaching a satisfactory resolution. The mediation process is conducted through telephone contacts and informal hearings, which are held at the offices of Consumer Protection, the consumer’s residence or the business location.

Criminal Investigations

Violations of consumer protection laws can lead to criminal charges resulting in punishment for the offender and possible monetary reimbursement through court-ordered restitution.

We Regulate

The Office of Consumer Protection is responsible for licensing and enforcement of certain county ordinances that help protect the citizens of Pinellas County. These include:

Licensing

Monitoring

We Educate

  • Our goal is to prevent you from becoming a victim of a scam.
  • Consumer education presentations are given FREE to local civic groups, high schools and at community events.
  • Always verify that a business has the proper license for the job or service and check their complaint history.
  • Knowledge is your best defense against consumer fraud.

We Protect

Keep these helpful tips in mind:

  • Visit www.DoNotCall.gov to reduce unwanted solicitation calls by placing
    your telephone number on the national Do Not Call Registry.
  • Read the fine print before signing a document or finalizing a purchase.
  • Beware of fraudulent offers and promotions that are too good to be true. These may include email solicitations, home improvement scams or high-pressure sales transactions.
  • Never “wire” money to an unknown person. You should not have to send money to receive a free prize or promise of employment.
  • Protect your personal information to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of identity theft.
  • Visit www.annualcreditreport.com to review your credit report annually.
  • Shop around, compare prices and obtain more than one quote for a product or service.