Overview of Child Labor Laws in Florida

Florida’s child labor laws are designed to protect minors while allowing them to gain work experience in safe and age-appropriate environments. Governed primarily by the Florida Department of Education (DOE) and the Florida Department of Labor (aligned with the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, FLSA), these laws set strict age limits, hour restrictions, and prohibitions on hazardous occupations.

Florida largely mirrors federal standards but has its own specific rules, particularly around work permits, age-specific hours, and documentation requirements. Employers must follow whichever rule, state or federal, is stricter.

Minimum Working Age in Florida

The general minimum working age in Florida is 14 years, with exceptions for younger children in limited roles.

• Under 14 years: Can only perform light work such as newspaper delivery (allowed at age 10+ with parental consent), babysitting, or work in a family business with parental consent.
• Ages 14–15: Permitted to work in approved occupations with strict hour and duty limitations.
• Ages 16–17: Allowed to work longer hours and in a wider range of occupations, but still subject to safety regulations and restricted hazardous jobs.
• 18 years and older: Child labor restrictions no longer apply.

Work Permits for Minors

Minors under 18 in Florida must obtain a Work Permit (School Form or Employer Application) if they are subject to compulsory education laws.

The process generally involves:

• Receiving a job offer.
• Completing the Minor’s Work Permit Application with parent/guardian and employer details.
• Submitting the application to the school for approval.
• Receiving the official permit specifying allowable hours, duties, and location.

Exemptions: Occasional babysitting, newspaper delivery for children aged 10 and older, family-owned agricultural work, and certain entertainment jobs.

Validity: Permits typically expire after one year or at the end of the school year and must be renewed.

Hour Restrictions for Minors

Florida enforces age-specific work hour restrictions. Hours vary based on school attendance and age:

Notes:

• Breaks must be provided for shifts longer than 4 hours.
• Schoolwork must not be adversely affected by employment.

Prohibited Jobs for Minors

Florida prohibits minors from working in hazardous roles. Restrictions differ by age:

Industry-specific restrictions:

• Food service: no operation of slicers, grinders, or large kitchen equipment.
• Agriculture: limited exposure to large tractors, pesticides, or heavy machinery.
• Entertainment: stricter hour rules and permits required.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations of Florida child labor laws can lead to significant consequences for employers:

• First-time violations: Fines ranging from $250–$1,000 depending on severity.
• Repeated or severe violations: Escalated fines up to $5,000 per violation.
• Criminal liability: Willful violations can result in misdemeanor charges, accompanied by fines and potential jail time.
• Federal penalties: Apply in addition to state penalties if FLSA rules are breached.

Parental liability: Parents generally are not penalized unless employing their children in commercial ventures without proper permits. Employers bear the primary responsibility.

HR Notifications and Documentation

Florida law requires employers to maintain accurate records and notify relevant authorities as part of their compliance obligations.

Notifications Required:

• To DOE/Department of Labor: Permit submissions, compliance issues, workplace injuries.
• To Parents/Guardians: Schedule changes, incidents, job duties, and completion of safety training.
• There is no legal requirement in Florida for employers, regardless of revenue, to publish child labor audit results online; any such publication is voluntary and advisory.