Miami-Dade Limits Private Ambulance Permits

Miami-Dade County has not issued new private ambulance permits since 2001 approval

Miami-Dade Limits Private Ambulance Permits

Miami-Dade County maintains strict limits on private ambulance companies operating in the region, with all current certificates dating back more than two decades. The Board of County Commissioners approved the existing private ambulance certificates in 2001, and no additional permits may be issued unless the Commission finds public necessity by a two-thirds vote. Officials said the regulations ensure health and safety standards for residents and visitors requiring medical transport.

Context & Background

The county regulates both private ambulance companies and public sector ambulance services, including municipal 911 fire rescue operations. Companies must obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to provide ambulance service for compensation or courtesy, according to county regulations. Ambulance service is defined as transportation where the person requires or is likely to require medical attention during transport. Private ambulance companies must also obtain a license from the State of Florida and a Local Business Tax from Miami-Dade County before beginning operations.

Key Details

The Board of County Commissioners sets uniform rates for private ambulance companies, and it's unlawful to charge any fare other than the established rates. All ambulance units must obtain valid inspection and operating permit decals from the Vehicle Inspection Station before starting operations. Private ground ambulances are inspected annually by the county for compliance with safety and sanitation requirements. The law prohibits transporting more than one patient in one ambulance vehicle, with exceptions for emergency situations or specific contracts.

Timeline & Implementation

Processing new applications, if approved by the Board, takes between three and six months and includes a public hearing where the public can comment. Certain providers are exempt from these regulations, including air ambulances providing inter-county transfers and vehicles owned by the Federal Government. Officials didn't specify how many private ambulance companies currently hold certificates or how many applications have been submitted since 2001.

Rider Impact & Moovit

The regulations affect residents and visitors who require non-emergency medical transport services throughout Miami-Dade County. Officials said the permit restrictions and rate controls aim to maintain service quality while protecting patients from excessive charges. Riders can use Moovit to plan trips to medical facilities and track public transit connections for non-emergency medical appointments throughout the Miami-Dade transit system.