The application period for Monroe County Emergency Management’s 2023 business placard early reentry program is open March 1 through Friday, April 28, at 5 p.m. There will be no exceptions after this time to apply for the 2023 business placard. The program allows essential businesses and nonprofits based in Monroe County timely access into the Florida Keys to assist in restoring community lifelines in an efficient and timely manner.
Placards are only valid in the year they are issued. There is only one application form to fill out each year. Do not apply until you have read and compiled the required documentation described on the placard web page. The application and program details are at monroecountyem.com/placardprogram. Applications will be reviewed within 21 working days.
Each registered business is allowed to bring in only their essential personnel; it does not include friends and family of those workers. Entering the county under a state of emergency using a placard grants access to an area that has not been deemed safe. Basic life support resources may not be available after a major event, and those entering with a placard must be self-sufficient for 14 days with shelter, food and water.
“Disaster response takes the effort of an entire community,” said Emergency Management Director Shannon Weiner. “Sharing your business’s skills and resources when needed most contributes to a swift recovery for all.”
Residents who wish to obtain or renew an early reentry placard for 2023 may do so through the Monroe County Emergency Reserve Corps at www.mercorps.org. Hurricane recovery courses are required for residents to receive the placard.
Also, reentry windshield stickers for residents can be picked up at Monroe County Tax Collector offices throughout the Florida Keys with proof of residency and vehicle registration. More information and locations to obtain stickers are at monroecountyem.com/reentrystickers.
Hurricane season begins June 1. Be prepared.
