FL H1555

Amends section 196.012, Florida Statutes, to clarify that lessees, whether public or private, leasing designated aviation areas on airport layout plans approved by the Federal Aviation Administration are exempt from ad valorem taxes.

Extends ad valorem tax exemptions to lessees operating aircraft full service fixed base operations that provide goods and services to the general aviation public in promotion of air commerce at qualifying aviation areas.

Grants ad valorem tax exemptions to public and private lessees operating at public airports, spaceports, and deepwater ports owned by governmental units for aviation, airport, aerospace, maritime, or port purposes.

Clarifies that buildings and real property improvements reverting to airport authorities or other governmental units upon lease expiration are deemed owned by the governmental unit rather than the lessee for ownership determination purposes.

Takes effect July 1, 2021, and is intended to clarify existing law rather than create new substantive provisions.