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Writer's pictureJames Mosieur
Nov 183 min read

Understanding Florida Statute 705.185: A Guide for Hotels, Theme Parks, and Entertainment Venues

With the recent enactment of Florida Statute 705.185, hotels, theme parks, and other entertainment venues across Florida must manage unclaimed property in specific ways. This law aims to bring order and accountability to the handling of unclaimed items, offering clear guidelines for their disposal. For property managers, the statute not only affects operations but also opens up new avenues for making a positive impact in the community through charitable donations.


Key Provisions of Florida Statute 705.185

Row of law books in a library

The statute outlines specific steps for managing unclaimed property, particularly in busy venues like hotels, theme parks, restaurants, zoos, museums, and aquariums. Here are the key points that properties need to follow:


  1. Holding and Tracking Requirement: Properties are required to hold unclaimed items for a minimum of 30 days, allowing guests the opportunity to retrieve lost belongings. During this holding period, properties must also maintain a record of all unclaimed items. This documentation is crucial for tracking the items and ensuring compliance with the disposal process.

  2. Disposal Requirements: If items remain unclaimed after 30 days, the statute provides guidance for proper disposal:

    • Donation to a 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization: Unclaimed items can be donated to a registered nonprofit, transforming lost property into valuable resources for those in need. For electronic items, it is necessary to erase personal data to safeguard the privacy of previous owners.

    • Prohibits the Sale of Unclaimed Items: The owner or operator of the premises may not sell and must dispose of the property or donate it to a 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization.



What This Means for Hotels and Entertainment Venues


Teddy Bear holding brown tag that says "Lost Property"

The law’s requirements for holding, tracking, and disposing of unclaimed property not only provide a framework for responsible lost-and-found management but also create opportunities for venues to contribute positively to their communities. Here’s how Florida hotels and entertainment venues can navigate these new responsibilities effectively:


Keeping Track of Unclaimed Items


It's crucial to maintain a record of unclaimed items as required by law. Establishing a system to log every item that comes into your lost-and-found department is vital for meeting compliance standards. This record should detail the item’s description, the date it was found, and its final status—whether it was claimed, donated, or disposed of. This organized method promotes transparency and ensures your property adheres to legal requirements.


Community Benefits of Unclaimed Items


Unclaimed items can provide surprising advantages to the community. By donating unclaimed electronics and other goods to recognized 501(c)(3) charities, venues can turn these items into valuable resources for those in need. For example, repurposed phones and electronics given to 911 Cell Phone Bank offer emergency assistance to survivors of domestic violence, seniors, and other at-risk groups. This strategy not only supports compliance but also boosts a venue’s reputation and commitment to social responsibility.


Enhancing Our Unclaimed Item Disposal Services in Florida


data imaging graphic showing item being recycled

To help properties throughout Florida comply with Statute 705.185, 911 Cell Phone Bank is excited to introduce our enhanced Unclaimed Item Disposal Services. We now provide thorough support for the disposal of all unclaimed items. Our offerings include secure data removal for electronic devices and dependable donation or disposal options for other items. We manage every aspect, from logging and tracking items to preparing and responsibly donating or discarding them, making it simple for properties to remain compliant with minimal administrative effort.


How The 911 Cell Phone Bank Can Facilitate Compliance and Create Positive Change


911 Cell Phone Bank logo

At the 911 Cell Phone Bank, we specialize in securely wiping personal data from unclaimed devices and converting them into vital resources for individuals in crisis. Our expanded services feature:


  • Thorough Documentation: We supply documentation for each item we process, enabling properties to keep accurate records.

  • Secure Data Wiping: Our team guarantees that data is erased in line with privacy standards, ensuring compliance with the law.

  • Community-Focused Disposal: Once prepared, donated items are sent to nonprofit partners, providing essential resources for law enforcement and support services for victims.


Conclusion


Florida Statute 705.185 outlines a clear approach to managing unclaimed property, which not only safeguards guest privacy but also allows properties to enhance their community contributions. By donating unclaimed items to a 501(c)(3) organization like 911 Cell Phone Bank, properties can fulfill legal requirements, improve their lost-and-found processes, and positively impact the lives of those in need.


For more information about our comprehensive Unclaimed Item Disposal Services or to discuss a partnership that suits your property’s needs, reach out to us at 911 Cell Phone Bank. Together, we can transform lost items into opportunities for meaningful change in Florida communities.


 


 

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