HERNANDO COUNTY INCENTIVES

Local incentive programs may be available for relocating or expanding industries. Because of each project’s unique nature, incentives are reviewed on an individual basis and customized with the needs of that business in mind. All incentives require a formal application to the Hernando County Office of Economic Development and final approval by the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners.

EXPEDITED PERMITTING, INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION (EPIC)

Overview

The objective of the EPIC Program is to allow companies expanding in or relocating to Hernando County to construct needed facilities and infrastructure within a time frame that meets company goals and/or deadlines.

The Economic Development Director is the EPIC Facilitator. As Liaison among departments, outside agencies and the customer, this single-point approach ensures a streamlined, Build-to-Certificate of Occupancy process.

A team assembled during the course of the project emphasizes “time is of the essence.” Team members are composed of various county departments and agencies including but not limited to:

  • Administration

  • Building

  • Permitting

  • Zoning

  • Planning

  • Utilities

  • Public Works

  • Engineering

  • Stormwater

  • Fire

  • Airport

  • Southwest Florida Water Management District

  • Florida Department of Transportation

Certain expanding or relocating companies that create value-added jobs may be eligible for the EPIC Program. Projects selected for this process will be prioritized and provided expedited permitting and priority inspections. Upon receipt of a project’s complete permit submittal, initial department review times should not exceed 10 working days.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM

Overview

The Economic Development Investment Incentive Program (EDIIP) is available to specific targeted industry commercial projects that increase the tax base, project new employment, and make a significant capital investment. Eligibility and approval recommendations will be determined by the Office of Economic Development with final approval from the Board of County Commissioners.

Available to specific targeted industries as determined by the Office of Economic Development:

  • Targeted industries include aviation, aerospace, manufacturing, distribution/logistics, back-office operations, research and development, and corporate relocations. Other projects of significant impact to the Hernando County economy will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Available to new and existing expanding businesses who will increase the ad valorem tax base through capital investment.

Grant values are determined via a scoring system and are based upon:

  • Employment/Job Creation (permanent, full-time positions)

  • Wages

  • Capital Investment

Applicant must score 10 or above to be eligible for the program.

Requires annual documentation of capital investment, employment and wages.

Grant award is paid annually upon submittal of proof of paid ad valorem tax bill and confirmation by the Office of Economic Development that all other taxes, fees, land leases, etc. are current.

More Info