AED Requirements in Florida

Florida requires every public school that is a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association to have an operational AED on school grounds (Fla. Stat. § 1006.165). Licensed assisted living facilities with 17 or more beds must keep a functioning AED on the premises at all times (Fla. Stat. § 429.255).

Shop AEDs School Athletics and Assisted Living AED Laws

Florida AED Law Overview

Florida requires every public school that is a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association to have an operational AED on school grounds (Fla. Stat. § 1006.165). Licensed assisted living facilities with 17 or more beds must keep a functioning AED on the premises at all times (Fla. Stat. § 429.255).

Every year, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7-10%. Having an AED on-site and trained staff ready to use it can mean the difference between life and death.

Whether Florida mandates AED placement for your organization or not, the investment in an AED program protects your employees, customers, and community — and can significantly reduce liability exposure.

Specific Requirements

  • FHSAA member public schools: an operational AED on school grounds, in a clearly marked location for every athletic contest, practice, workout and conditioning session (Fla. Stat. § 1006.165)
  • A school employee or volunteer with current CPR and AED training present at each of those athletic events (Fla. Stat. § 1006.165)
  • The location of each school AED registered with a local EMS medical director (Fla. Stat. § 1006.165)
  • Licensed assisted living facilities with 17 or more beds: a functioning AED on the premises at all times (Fla. Stat. § 429.255)

Sources

These summaries were last checked against the official sources above in October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Other state or local rules may also apply; check the current law or ask an attorney about your organization.

Who Needs an AED in Florida?

Offices & Workplaces

Corporate offices, coworking spaces, and business parks

The American Heart Association reports that 10,000 cardiac arrests occur in the workplace each year. Having an AED can increase survival rates by up to 70%.

Schools & Universities

K-12 schools, colleges, and educational institutions

Student athletes and staff are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Many states now mandate AEDs in schools.

Gyms & Fitness Centers

Health clubs, yoga studios, CrossFit boxes, and recreation centers

Intense physical activity can trigger cardiac events. Most states require AEDs in fitness facilities.

Churches & Places of Worship

Churches, synagogues, mosques, and community halls

Large gatherings of all ages, often with elderly congregants, make AEDs essential for community safety.

Restaurants & Hotels

Restaurants, hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues

High foot traffic and diverse demographics make AEDs critical for guest safety and liability protection.

Construction & Industrial Sites

Construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing plants

Physical labor, heat stress, and remote locations make rapid cardiac response critical.

Sports Facilities

Stadiums, arenas, sports complexes, and athletic fields

Athletes of all ages face cardiac risks during high-intensity activity.

Medical & Dental Offices

Doctor offices, dental practices, outpatient clinics

Even in medical settings, an AED provides immediate response before advanced care arrives.

Florida AED Compliance Checklist

Recommended AEDs for Florida Compliance

ZOLL AED 3

Real-time CPR feedback and WiFi-enabled monitoring.

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Philips HeartStart

Simple voice instructions guide any user through a rescue.

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Defibtech Lifeline

Budget-friendly reliability. Clear audio/visual prompts and rugged design for any environment.

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Florida AED FAQs

Is an AED required in Florida?
Florida requires every public school that is a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association to have an operational AED on school grounds (Fla. Stat. § 1006.165). Licensed assisted living facilities with 17 or more beds must keep a functioning AED on the premises at all times (Fla. Stat. § 429.255).
What are the penalties for not having an AED in Florida?
This page does not list penalties. Requirements, enforcement and any penalties depend on the specific law and who it covers. Check the official sources listed on this page or ask an attorney about your organization.
Do I need training to use an AED?
Modern AEDs are designed to be used by anyone, even without formal training — they provide step-by-step voice instructions and will only deliver a shock if needed. However, CPR and AED training for the staff expected to respond improves response times, and some AED laws require training for certain organizations.
How often do AED pads and batteries need replacing?
AED pads typically need replacing every 2 years, and batteries every 4-5 years, though this varies by manufacturer and model. MyAED's free Program Management service tracks your expiration dates and sends automatic reminders so you never have expired supplies.
Does Florida have Good Samaritan protection for AED users?
Protection for people who use an AED in good faith during an emergency, and any conditions attached to it, depend on Florida's law. This page does not summarize that protection. Check the current law or ask an attorney about your situation.
Where should I place an AED in my building?
Place AEDs in high-traffic, easily accessible locations where they can be reached within 3 minutes of any point in your facility. Common locations include main lobbies, break rooms, near elevators, fitness areas, and cafeterias. Use clear signage and ensure the AED is not locked behind doors.

Protect Your Florida Business Today

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