Taxing Assessments

The tax collector collects all ad valorem taxes levied in St. Lucie County, as well as non-ad valorem assessments.

Ad Valorem Taxes

Ad valorem taxes are levied annually based on the value of real property and tangible personal property. Ad valorem assessments are made January 1. Real property is defined as land, buildings, fixtures and all other improvements to the land. Non-ad valorem assessments are also made on real property for essential services, such as erosion control and water control.

Certification

The ad valorem tax roll is certified by the property appraiser to the tax collector. The property appraiser determines the assessed value of property. The Board of County Commissioners, School Board, municipalities and other ad valorem taxing bodies set the millage rates for properties within their boundaries. The millage rate is the dollar amount to be paid in taxes for every $1,000 of appraised valuation. A mill is equal to 1 tenth of 1%.

Non-Ad Valorem Taxes

Non-ad valorem assessment rolls are certified to the property appraiser by non-ad valorem assessing authorities, such as erosion control districts and water control districts.

Municipal Services Benefit Units

Municipal Services Benefit Units (MSBU) special assessment rolls are certified to the tax collector by local governing boards, such as the county or cities.

Consolidation

The tax collector consolidates the certified ad valorem, non-ad valorem, and the MSBU tax rolls and mails tax notices to property owners. Assessments are due beginning November 1 or soon after the tax roll is certified. According to Florida Statute, taxpayers are responsible for knowing that their property taxes are due each year. Assessments become delinquent April 1.

Tax Payments

Tax payments may be made online or by mail to: St. Lucie County Tax Collector, P.O. Box 308, Ft. Pierce, FL 34954-0308.