Consumer Tips and Resources
Pinellas County offers tips and resources that allow consumers to make the best decisions.
Featured Government Office
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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Consumer Stories
- Pinellas County Consumer Protection investigation leads to criminal charges
- Pinellas County Consumer Protection helps unlicensed contractor victims file charges, receive restitution
- Consumer Protection investigation leads to arrest, $203,941 in restitution for 30 victims
- Disgruntled Contractor Takes Advantage No More
- Drug Paraphernalia Dilemma
- Scam Artist No More
Modeling Agency Regulations
Modeling agencies are required to be licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. The license must be displayed at......
Obtaining a Mortgage
Government-Insured Loans Mortgage loans are also available through three programs of the federal government: Federal Housing Administration (FHA): This mortgage insurance program......
Moving Ordinance
If you are planning on hiring a mover, remember: Pinellas County Moving Ordinance If you have any questions about movers, call (727)......
High Prescribing Health Clinic Permitting—Pain Management
Effective Oct. 1, 2025, there is a $55.00 increase in High Prescribing Health Clinic (HPHC) license fees from $1,610 to $1,665 to......
Consumer Tips: Price Gouging
Price gouging is when a business sells necessary goods or services at higher than normal prices during a state of emergency. This......
Consumer Quick Tips
A retail store must conspicuously post the return policy near the point of sale or on the receipt. Never give an uninvited......
Consumer Protection Regulations
Licenses charitable, authorized organizations, and all lessors who are involved in the conduct of Bingo, High Prescribing Health Clinics, and Adult Use......
Tips for avoiding COVID-19 robocall scams
As many of us are practicing social distancing by staying home, we may be more likely to answer unsolicited phone calls. That’s......
Protect Your Senior Family and Friends from COVID-19 scams
During these times of social distancing and quarantine, older adults may be more isolated and therefore more vulnerable to scams. Perpetrators may......
Consumer Tips: Mortgage Terms You Should Know
CLOSING COSTS: Costs the buyer must pay at the time of closing in addition to the down payment. Closing costs average 3-4%......