FL Child Labor Law Compliance

Florida child labor law compliance for retail stores hiring workers under 18, covering age verification, hours restrictions, prohibited tasks, and work permit requirements.

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What this document covers

Florida child labor laws impose specific restrictions on employing minors in retail stores — a common practice given the industry's demand for part-time workers. Florida requires all minors under 18 to have an Age Certificate or work permit before starting work. Minors aged 14-15 face strict hours limitations: no more than 15 hours per week during school weeks, no work during school hours, and no work before 7 AM or after 7 PM (9 PM during summer). Minors aged 16-17 have fewer restrictions but still cannot work more than 30 hours per week during school weeks or before 6:30 AM. Retail-specific prohibitions include operating power-driven equipment (compactors, balers, forklifts) and working in freezer or cooler environments for extended periods.

Key sections included

Age verification and work permit requirements
Hours restrictions for 14-15 year olds (school year and summer)
Hours restrictions for 16-17 year olds (school year and summer)
Prohibited occupations and tasks for minors
Break requirements for minor employees
Record retention for minor employee documentation
School attendance verification
Parental consent documentation

Frequently asked questions

Can a 14-year-old work in my retail store?

Yes, but with strict limitations. Florida allows 14-15 year olds to work in retail, but they cannot work more than 15 hours per week during the school year, cannot work during school hours, and can only work between 7 AM and 7 PM (9 PM June 1 through Labor Day). They need a valid Age Certificate.

Can a 16-year-old operate the trash compactor?

No. Federal and Florida law prohibit minors under 18 from operating power-driven equipment including compactors, balers, forklifts, and box crushers. This is a Hazardous Occupation Order violation that can result in significant penalties.

Do I need a work permit for a 17-year-old?

Florida requires an Age Certificate (work permit) for all minors under 18. The minor obtains it from their school district superintendent's office. You must have it on file before the minor begins work.

Document details

State: Florida
Legal basis: Florida Statutes Chapter 450, Part I (Child Labor); Florida Administrative Code Chapter 6A-3
Enforced by: Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR); Florida Department of Education
Penalty for absence: Civil penalties up to $2,500 per violation. Each minor employed in violation counts as a separate offense. Pattern violations: criminal prosecution as second-degree misdemeanor. DBPR can issue stop-work orders.
Category: Employment & HR

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