Florida § 870.042 - Designation of local authority.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 870.042 — Designation of local authority., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 870.042. Designation of local authority.
(1) The sheriff of each of the several counties of this state, or such other county official having the duties of a sheriff in counties operating under home rule charter, by whatever name known, shall be empowered to declare that a state of emergency exists within the unincorporated areas of the county and to exercise the emergency powers conferred in ss. 870.041-870.047. (2) The governing body of any municipality within this state may designate by duly adopted ordinance a city official who shall be empowered to declare that a state of emergency exists within the boundaries of the municipality and to exercise the emergency powers conferred in ss. 870.041-870.047. The designated city official shall be either the mayor or chief of police or the person who performs the duties of a mayor or chief of police in such municipality. In the absence of a duly adopted ordinance so designating the official so to act, the chief of police of such municipality is designated as the city official to assume the duties and powers hereof.
Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 870.042
What does Florida Statutes § 870.042 cover?
Section 870.042 ("Designation of local authority.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Florida § 870.042?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 870.042" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 870.042 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.