Section 12D-7.018 - Fraternal and Benevolent Organizations(1) The property of non-profit fraternal and benevolent organizations is entitled to full or predominant exemption from ad valorem taxation when used exclusively or predominantly for charitable, educational, literary, scientific or religious purposes. The extent of the exemption to be granted to fraternal and benevolent organizations shall be determined in accordance with those provisions of chapter 196, F.S., which govern the exemption of all property used for charitable, educational, literary, scientific or religious purposes.(2) The exclusive or predominant use of property or portions of property owned by fraternal and benevolent organizations and used for organization, planning, and fund-raising activity under section 196.193(3), F.S., for charitable purposes constitutes the use of the property for exempt purposes to the extent of the exclusive or predominant use. The incidental use of said property for social, fraternal, or similar meetings shall not deprive the property of its exempt status. It is not necessary that public funds actually be allocated for such function or service pursuant to section 196.012(7), F.S.(3) Any part or portion of the real or personal property of a fraternal or benevolent organization leased or rented for commercial or other non-exempt purposes, or used by such organization for commercial purposes, such as a bar, restaurant, or swimming pool, shall not be exempt from ad valorem taxes but shall be taxable to the extent specified in sections 196.192 and 196.012(3), F.S. In determining commercial purposes, pursuant to sections 196.195(2)(e) and 196.196(1)(b), F.S., the reasonableness of the charges in relation to the value of the services shall be considered as well as whether the excess is used to pay maintenance and operational expenses in furthering the exempt purposes or to provide services to persons unable to pay for the services.Fla. Admin. Code Ann. R. 12D-7.018
Rulemaking Authority 195.027(1), 213.06(1) FS. Law Implemented 196.012, 196.192, 196.195, 196.196 FS.
New 10-12-76, Formerly 12D-7.18, Amended 11-21-91, 12-30-99.New 10-12-76, Formerly 12D-7.18, Amended 11-21-91, 12-30-99.