Florida Launches First-Ever Sales Tax Holiday for Firearms & Outdoor Gear

Florida Launches First-Ever Sales Tax Holiday for Firearms & Outdoor Gear

Overview

Starting September 8, 2025, Florida has introduced its first-ever “Second Amendment” Sales Tax Holiday—a four-month exemption from state sales tax (and any local surtaxes) on a wide array of firearms, ammunition, and hunting/fishing/camping equipment, running through December 31, 2025 Florida Governor’s OfficeKiplingerFox BusinessWTSP.

What’s Included

This tax exemption includes, but is not limited to:

• Firearms (pistols, rifles, shotguns)

• Ammunition (as defined by state law) Florida Dept. of Revenue+1

• Firearm accessories:

  • Charging handles

  • Cleaning kits

  • Holsters

  • Pistol grips

  • Sights or optics

  • Stocks Florida Governor’s OfficeFlorida Dept. of Revenue+1

• Bows, crossbows, and related accessories (arrows, bolts, quivers, wristguards, releases, sights/optics) Florida Governor’s OfficeFlorida Dept. of Revenue+1

• Camping and fishing gear with specific price limits, including:

  • Bait/tackle: $5 or less individually (or $10/set)

  • Lanterns, flashlights, tackle boxes/bags: $30 or less

  • Camping stoves, sleeping bags, portable hammocks, chairs: $50 or less

  • Rods and reels: $75 or less (or $150/set)

  • Tents: $200 or less Florida Governor’s OfficeFlorida Dept. of Revenue+1

Legislative Background & Context

This initiative stems from House Bill 7031, part of Florida’s FY 2025–26 tax package, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis in June Florida Policy InstituteKiplingerFlorida Governor’s Office. It’s a cornerstone of a broader tax relief strategy, which also includes:

• A permanent back-to-school tax holiday every August

• Permanent exemptions on certain disaster-prep items

• No-sales-tax on state park admissions and precious metals bullion (gold, silver, platinum) The SunKiplingerFlorida Policy Institute

Economic Impact

State economists anticipate this tax break will help Floridians save approximately $44.8 million before the end of the year. At the same time, it is projected to reduce state revenue by $34.6 million and local revenue by $10.2 million. Fox BusinessWTSPFlorida Policy Institute

Reactions & Considerations

Retailers such as Talon Tactical Outfitters reported significant expectations from customers eager to invest in firearms, ammunition, and related gear. “It’s going to be a significant tax break,” said co-owner JD Johnson. Fox BusinessWTSP

However, critics—including Senator Tina Polsky (D–Boca Raton)—have expressed concern, calling the move “irresponsible” for providing tax breaks on firearms without limitations or safeguards. Others pointed out the omission of safe storage gear like gun safes and locks from the exemption. WTSP

Additional Details & Administrative Guidance

• Exemptions apply to remote/online purchases, provided the order was accepted for immediate shipment during the holiday period, even if delivery comes later Florida Dept. of Revenue+1.

• Layaway purchases, gift card redemptions, and rain-check scenarios are eligible, subject to specific conditions outlined in the Department of Revenue’s Tax Information Publication (TIP #25A01-09) and FAQs Florida Dept. of Revenue+1.

• Silencers/suppressors are explicitly excluded from the list of exempt items Florida Dept. of Revenue.

Summary Snapshot