Find recovery residence and sober living resources in Florida: certification through the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR), the credentialing entity approved by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), administrator credentials, local reasonable-accommodation rules, and help for residents and families in all 67 counties.
Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR), approved by the Department of Children and Families (DCF)
State license
None. Certification is needed to take referrals from DCF-licensed providers (Fla. Stat. 397.4873)
Administrator
Certified residences are managed by a certified recovery residence administrator (CRRA) from the Florida Certification Board
Local zoning
Every county and city must offer a reasonable-accommodation process for certified residences (since January 1, 2026)
Step by step
How to open a recovery house or sober living home in Florida
If a Florida recovery residence will take referrals from treatment providers licensed by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), it needs certification from the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR) and a certified recovery residence administrator (CRRA). To get there, check local zoning, line up a CRRA, run Level 2 background screening, write your policy manual, apply to FARR, and pass its onsite assessment.
The steps most new operators follow to open a recovery house in Florida, in order. Each one links to the official form or rule behind it.
1
Decide whether you need FARR certification in Florida
State requirement
If you want referrals from DCF-licensed treatment providers, the residence must be certified and managed by a certified recovery residence administrator (CRRA). An uncertified home may operate but can't advertise as certified.
Check zoning and request a reasonable accommodation
Local requirement
Talk with your county or city before you sign a lease. Every county and city must have a reasonable-accommodation process for certified residences that gives a completeness notice within 30 days and a decision within 60 days, or the request is deemed approved.
Line up a certified recovery residence administrator
State requirement
The residence must be actively managed by a CRRA credentialed by the Florida Certification Board. If the administrator leaves, tell FARR within three business days and replace them within 90 days.
The application includes a policy manual covering job descriptions, drug testing, the ban on alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs, and sharing medications, recovery support, and a good-neighbor policy, plus resident rules and forms, intake, relapse, fee, refund, eviction, discharge, and visitor policies. Don't deny housing solely because a resident takes an FDA-approved medication for substance use disorder.
Apply through FARR's portal. The application fee is capped at $100. FARR reviews your documents and inspects the residence, including fire, safety, and health conditions, before certifying it.
Certification expires after one year unless renewed, and the renewal fee is also capped at $100. Expect at least one inspection a year. Remove anyone arrested for or convicted of a listed offense immediately and notify FARR within three business days.
Decide whether you'll take referrals from DCF-licensed providers
Call your county or city about its reasonable-accommodation process
Hire or become a certified recovery residence administrator (CRRA)
Run Level 2 background screening for owners, directors, and the CFO
Write your policy manual, resident rules, and intake forms
Write discharge, relapse, refund, and visitor policies
Confirm your policies allow FDA-approved medication for substance use disorder
Get insurance and fire, safety, and health inspections
Apply to FARR and schedule the onsite assessment
Put the annual renewal date on the calendar
Free launch consult
Opening your first house?
Talk it through with an operator for 30 minutes. We’ll go over your model, zoning, policies, and the license or certification you need, and you’ll leave with a clear next-step checklist.
Florida has no sober living license, but Florida Statutes 397.487 and 397.4873 let DCF-licensed providers, with limited exceptions, refer only to certified recovery residences managed by a certified recovery residence administrator (CRRA). The Department of Children and Families (DCF) approves the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR) to certify residences and the Florida Certification Board to credential administrators. Certification renews every year, and every county and city must offer a reasonable-accommodation process for certified residences.
State requirements, local requirements, and voluntary certification are labeled separately. Confirm how they apply to your home with the agency or qualified counsel.
State requirement
Certification for recovery residences that take provider referrals
Under Florida Statutes 397.487 and 397.4873, service providers licensed by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) may refer people only to certified recovery residences that are actively managed by a certified recovery residence administrator (CRRA) and that ban alcohol, marijuana (including medical marijuana), illegal drugs, and sharing medications. The referral limit doesn't apply to providers under contract with a DCF managing entity, or to a residence run democratically by its residents under a charter from an entity recognized by Congress, when it has no financial or referral tie to the provider and no one benefits from the referral. Even then, providers can't refer to a residence that allows alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs, or sharing medications. Uncertified homes may operate but can't advertise as certified. A provider that refers to an uncertified home commits a first-degree misdemeanor and faces a $1,000 fine per occurrence, and the Patient Brokering Act also applies.
DCF approves the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR) as the credentialing entity for recovery residences. The application includes a policy manual, resident rules and forms, intake, relapse, fee, refund and eviction policies, a sex-offender registry policy, insurance, background screening, and fire, safety, and health inspections. The application fee and the renewal fee are capped at $100 each. Certification expires after one year unless renewed, and each residence is inspected at least once a year.
A certified residence must be actively managed by a CRRA credentialed by the Florida Certification Board. Notify FARR within three business days if the administrator leaves, and replace them within 90 days or lose certification.
Owners, directors, and the chief financial officer need Level 2 background screening. Anyone arrested for or convicted of a listed offense must be removed immediately, with notice to FARR within three business days. A certified residence can't deny housing solely because a resident is prescribed an FDA-approved medication for substance use disorder (since January 1, 2025). Minor children can't visit between 9 pm and 7 am unless court-ordered or at a specialized residence, and can't visit at all if any resident is a registered sex offender. With an approved discharge policy, a residence may discharge a resident immediately for their welfare, unmet needs, or a safety risk to others.
Every Florida county and city had to adopt a reasonable-accommodation ordinance for certified recovery residences no later than January 1, 2026. The local government gives a completeness notice within 30 days of a written application and decides within 60 days; a request with no decision is deemed approved. The federal Fair Housing Act also protects people in recovery from discriminatory land-use decisions.
Oxford Houses are self-run, self-supported recovery homes chartered by Oxford House, Inc., where residents split expenses equally and there is no house manager.
Recovery houses and sober living by county in Florida
303 FARR-certified recovery residences appear on public lists in 27 of Florida’s 67 counties (checked October 1, 2026).
Choose a county to see how many recovery houses appear on public licensing and certification lists, plus its Managing Entity, which can help with referrals and funding.
These operators asked to be listed and approved what each listing says. Confirm openings, costs and house rules with the operator before you move in. A listing isn’t a recommendation or an inspection by ARKHE.
Private residenceMAT-friendly
AFV Orlando Private Residence
Run by A Father’s Vision
Orlando, Orange County, Florida
$2,000 per month
A more private recovery residence with the same accountability and peer support as AFV’s community homes. Availability is assessed for each applicant.
Apply online or email AFV’s housing team. AFV confirms openings and gives the home’s location during its housing intake.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Escambia County Board of County Commissioners · Escambia County, FL
Escambia County awards opioid settlement money through a competitive Notice of Funding Availability, and its advisory board makes funding recommendations every year. Local governments and nonprofits that serve Escambia County can apply if they provide, or plan to expand into, mental health or substance use services. They need 501(c)(3) proof, a project that fits the statewide agreement's core strategies or approved uses, and a request of at least $50,000. Grants are paid monthly as reimbursements, and the current round is closed.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) contracts with seven regional Managing Entities, listed by DCF, that fund and coordinate publicly funded substance use and mental health services in their counties and can connect people to local treatment and recovery support providers, including recovery housing.
To find a certified recovery residence in Florida, use the Find Certified Housing search from the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR), or search Oxford House vacancies. Certified residences can't turn you away solely for taking an FDA-approved medication for substance use disorder. In a crisis, call or text 988.
Official directories for finding a licensed recovery house or sober living home, and programs that can help pay for a stay. Programs set their own eligibility, and funding or openings are never guaranteed. Contact each organization to confirm what it can offer.
Search tool for open beds in Oxford Houses (self-run, self-supported recovery homes), filterable by state (including Florida), county, and house type, with an online application.
Oxford House, Inc. (301) 587-2916; toll-free (800) 689-6411
Nonprofit that charters democratically run, self-supported Oxford House recovery homes, where residents split expenses equally and there is no house manager.
(301) 587-2916; (800) 689-6411
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Treatment and referral navigation
Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) · Florida
How to apply for Medicaid, food assistance, and cash assistance: online through the MyACCESS portal, in person at a DCF Family Resource Center or community partner, or on paper. Processing can take up to 30 days.
Automated response system (850) 300-4323
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Inform Florida (formerly the Florida Alliance of Information & Referral Services) · Florida
Florida 211 is a free, confidential service from Inform Florida (formerly the Florida Alliance of Information & Referral Services). It connects people with local community-based organizations. Its 11 regional centers provide community resource navigation, crisis and suicide intervention, mental health referrals and disaster information, and ten of them are also 988 Crisis & Suicide Lifeline centers. Call 211 or use the linked searchable directory.
Floridians for Recovery, Florida's statewide recovery community organization, keeps an interactive map of recovery community organizations (RCOs) in Florida. Use it to find an RCO near you for recovery support.
(none)
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Employment and education
Florida Department of Education, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation · Florida
Helps adults with disabilities find, keep, or advance in a job, with steps to get started for adults and for students and youth.
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Funding
Recovery house grants and funding in Florida
In Florida, public behavioral health money reaches providers mainly through the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and its regional managing entities, which contract with local providers using state funds and the federal State Opioid Response (SOR) grant, whose recovery supports include access to recovery housing. FloridaCommerce runs the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Recovery Housing Program in Florida, with a focus on veterans in recovery. Opioid settlement money is split among the state, counties and cities, and the statewide agreement lists recovery housing that allows medication for addiction treatment as an approved use. The Department of Corrections also contracts each year, when funded, for substance abuse transition housing for people leaving prison.
Grants and public programs that can pay operators or cover residents’ stays. Public funding often requires a state license or certification, and every program sets its own eligibility and timeline, so confirm details with the agency.
Grants and funding programs
Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health · Florida
Florida's federal SOR grant is run by DCF, and the current SOR 4 project runs through September 29, 2027. Funds go to each region to contract for treatment and recovery supports through the regional managing entities, and recovery supports include more access to recovery housing, with a goal of 44 new Oxford Houses a year. Ask your region's managing entity how SOR recovery support money is contracted.
DCF contracts for behavioral health services through regional managing entities. They don't provide services themselves, but they let DCF's funding fit each region's needs. The page links a contact list showing which of the seven managing entities covers each county. It is the place to find out who handles state-funded behavioral health contracts in your area.
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Florida Office of the Attorney General and participating local governments (posted by DCF) · Florida
This agreement sets how Florida's opioid settlement money is split. 15% goes to cities and counties. A regional share goes to qualified counties directly, or through DCF's managing entities for all other counties. The state spends the rest. The approved uses include recovery housing, supportive housing, housing assistance and training for housing providers, and recovery housing that allows FDA-approved medication is a priority. The agreement has no application process of its own; providers are paid through contracts or grants from the state, counties, cities or managing entities.
Each fiscal year, if funded, the Department of Corrections must contract with several private organizations, including faith-based groups, for substance abuse transition housing for people released from prison. Programs provide housing after release, treatment, and job placement, and stays can last up to 12 months. The law doesn't explain how contracts are awarded, so ask the Department of Corrections about current contracts.
Published or revised · Checked by ARKHE
Escambia County Board of County Commissioners · Escambia County, FL
Escambia County awards opioid settlement money through a competitive Notice of Funding Availability, and its advisory board makes funding recommendations every year. Local governments and nonprofits that serve Escambia County can apply if they provide, or plan to expand into, mental health or substance use services. They need 501(c)(3) proof, a project that fits the statewide agreement's core strategies or approved uses, and a request of at least $50,000. Grants are paid monthly as reimbursements, and the current round is closed.
Florida's share of the federal HUD Recovery Housing Program funds stable, transitional housing for people in recovery from a substance use disorder, with a focus on veterans. Under the action plans, public and private nonprofits and local governments with proven experience serving people in recovery from a substance use disorder can apply, and applicants that prioritize serving veterans get preference. Uses include buying and rehabilitating property, new construction, and lease, rent and utilities. FloridaCommerce says an upcoming application cycle will award about $3.1 million but has not posted dates. The action plans are posted on this page, and questions go to [email protected].
Low-interest loans and grants to buy, build, or improve essential facilities, including transitional housing, in rural areas of 20,000 people or fewer. Open to public bodies, community-based nonprofits and federally recognized tribes, not for-profit operators. Applications are accepted year round; contact the Florida Rural Development state office first.
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Official documents
Florida recovery house forms, regulations, and agency pages
Each entry shows who issued it, where it applies, and when we last checked the source.
The state law that sets up certification of recovery residences through a credentialing entity approved by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). It covers the application, fees, background screening, the certified recovery residence administrator, inspections, renewal, discharge, medication for addiction treatment, and local reasonable-accommodation ordinances.
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Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) · Florida
DCF's page naming the approved credentialing entities: the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR) for recovery residences and the Florida Certification Board for recovery residence administrators. It explains how the public can check whether an administrator is certified.
Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, 2415 North Monroe Street, Suite 400, Tallahassee, FL 32303-4190
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Florida Association of Recovery Residences · Florida
The DCF-approved credentialing entity that certifies recovery residences in Florida to the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) standards and Florida law. Its website has the certification application, FARR's standards, and a Find Certified Housing search.
The state law that limits referrals by DCF-licensed service providers to certified recovery residences managed by a certified recovery residence administrator, with limited exceptions such as providers under contract with a DCF managing entity, and requires providers to keep records of those referrals.
The Florida Certification Board's page for the CRRA credential, which s. 397.487 requires for certified recovery residences. CRRAs oversee staff, volunteers, and residents under FARR standards.
850-222-6314
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Inspections and applications
Florida Association of Recovery Residences · Florida
FARR's step-by-step certification process: application and agreements, phone interview, payment, Level II background clearance, policy documents uploaded to its portal, an onsite assessment, and a compliance review. FARR starts renewal 90 days before certification expires.
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Zoning and fair housing
Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) · Florida
How to file a state housing discrimination complaint, including disability discrimination and refusal of reasonable accommodations. Complaints must be filed within one year of the last act of discrimination, and most cases are dual-filed with HUD.
(850) 488-7082; toll-free (800) 342-8170
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U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division · United States
DOJ's overview of the federal Fair Housing Act, which bars disability discrimination in housing and bars local governments from using zoning or land use rules to exclude group homes for people with disabilities.
Published or revised · Checked by ARKHE
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) · United States
HUD's page for reporting housing discrimination under the federal Fair Housing Act.
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Resources for operators
Running a recovery house in Florida
Practical ARKHE guides that pair with the official sources in this guide.
Fill beds and stay inspection-ready
ARKHE is recovery housing software built by operators. It keeps inquiries, intake paperwork, rent, house routines, staff training, and incident records in one place, so you can find them when an inspector or funder asks.
Do I need a license to open a sober living home in Florida?
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Florida doesn't license sober living homes, but it certifies recovery residences. Certification through the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR) is needed to take referrals from treatment providers licensed by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), and the residence must be managed by a certified recovery residence administrator. Uncertified homes may operate but can't advertise as certified.
How much does FARR certification cost in Florida?
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Florida Statutes 397.487 caps the application fee and the annual renewal fee at $100 each. Certification lasts one year and must be renewed.
What is a certified recovery residence administrator (CRRA)?
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A CRRA is a credential from the Florida Certification Board for the person who oversees a recovery residence's staff, volunteers, and residents. A certified residence must be actively managed by a CRRA. If the CRRA leaves, the residence must notify FARR within three business days and replace them within 90 days or lose certification.
What rules do certified recovery residences in Florida follow?
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Owners, directors, and the chief financial officer need Level 2 background screening. Residences ban alcohol, marijuana (including medical marijuana), illegal drugs, and sharing medications, and can't deny housing solely because a resident takes an FDA-approved medication for substance use disorder. Minor children can't visit between 9 pm and 7 am unless court-ordered, and can't visit at all if a resident is a registered sex offender. Each residence is inspected at least once a year.
Can a Florida city use zoning to keep a recovery residence out?
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Every Florida county and city had to adopt a reasonable-accommodation ordinance for certified recovery residences no later than January 1, 2026. The local government must decide a written request within 60 days, or it is deemed approved. The federal Fair Housing Act also protects people in recovery, and complaints can go to the Florida Commission on Human Relations or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Can a Florida treatment provider refer clients to an uncertified sober home?
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Generally no. Under Florida Statutes 397.4873, DCF-licensed service providers may refer only to certified recovery residences managed by a certified recovery residence administrator, and must keep referral records. The exceptions are providers under contract with a DCF managing entity, and democratically run residences chartered by an entity recognized by Congress that have no financial or referral tie to the provider. No provider may refer to a home that allows alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs, or sharing medications. A provider that refers to an uncertified home commits a first-degree misdemeanor and faces a $1,000 fine per occurrence.
How do I list my recovery residence in this guide for free?
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Request a free listing. You choose what it shows, such as who the home serves and its certifications. The street address is shown only if you want it to be. Listing never requires ARKHE software.
How do I find a certified recovery residence or sober living home in Florida?
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The Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FARR), the credentialing entity approved by the Department of Children and Families, has a Find Certified Housing search on its website. Oxford House's vacancy search lists open beds in Oxford Houses in Florida.
Can a Florida recovery residence turn me away for taking medication for addiction?
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A certified recovery residence can't deny you housing solely because you are prescribed an FDA-approved medication for substance use disorder. Residences do ban sharing medications. If you think you were treated unfairly because of a disability, you can contact the Florida Commission on Human Relations or HUD.
How do I apply for Medicaid in Florida?
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Apply online through the Department of Children and Families' MyACCESS portal, which uses one application for Medicaid, food assistance, and cash assistance. You can also apply in person at a DCF Family Resource Center or community partner, or on paper. Processing can take up to 30 days.
What should I ask a Florida recovery residence before moving in?
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Ask whether the residence is certified by FARR and who its certified recovery residence administrator is, what it costs and what that includes, its refund, relapse, and discharge policies, and its visitor rules. The Florida Certification Board's credential database lets you check whether an administrator is certified.
Can I get job help while living in a Florida recovery residence?
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The Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation helps adults with disabilities find, keep, or advance in a job. Its website explains how to get started.
Sources and review
How this Florida guide is sourced and reviewed
Last reviewed: . Each resource shows the date we last loaded its source.
Compiled by:ARKHE. Listing in this guide is free and never requires ARKHE software.
We include official agency pages, published regulations, and established statewide organizations. Each entry links to its source. Items we could not confirm from a primary source are left out until we can.
County home counts come from the public lists named above, on the dates shown. Closed homes are left out, and homes without a county on the list are placed by ZIP code.
Individual homes are listed only at the operator’s request, and the operator controls what the listing says. Licensing or certification status is shown only with a source and the date we checked it.
Operate a recovery home in Florida, or know a resource we should include? Submit your information or suggest an update to help us keep this guide useful and accurate.