Consumer Services

Ambulance Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (COPCN)

• What is this certificate used for?
• Why is this necessary?
• How can I obtain an ambulance certificate?
• How long does it take to process the application?
• How much are the certificate fees?
• For how long is the certificate valid?
• What other permits are needed before I can start work?

What is this certificate used for?

In order to provide ambulance service, for compensation or courtesy, you must first obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. Ambulance service, as defined by Chapter 4, Article I of the Miami-Dade County Code means that the person(s) being transported requires or is likely to require medical attention during transport.

Why is this necessary?

To promote the health, safety and welfare of Miami-Dade County’s residents and visitors by providing for the reasonable uniform regulations of ambulance services thereby promoting the development and maintenance of a safe, healthy, efficient and service oriented ambulance service for Miami-Dade County.

How can I obtain an ambulance certificate?

Ambulance service by private companies is not an open category. All current private ambulance certificates were approved by the Board of County Commissioners in 2001. No additional private certificates for new ambulance service may be authorized unless the Commission by a two thirds (2/3) vote of the entire membership finds that the public convenience and necessity require the issuance of additional certificates.

How long does it take to process the application?

If the Board of County Commissioners approves the issuance of new certificates, it will take between three (3) and six (6) months from the time you apply to the time your application is considered for approval by the Board. Please be aware that there is a schedule of available meetings, that there is a required 10-day notice for the public hearing and that the application will also be reviewed by a sub-committee of the Board prior to being placed before the full Board of County Commissioners. This will be a public hearing at which the public can comment.  At the conclusion of the hearing, the Board will vote on whether to approve or deny the application. You will be notified of the date and time of this meeting.

How much are the certificate fees?

CSD Fee Schedule 
Cash will not be accepted.  Fees can be paid by check, money order or cashiers check made payable to the "Board of County Commissioners".  If renewing in person, the renewal fee can be paid by credit card (MasterCard or Visa).

For how long is the certificate valid?

Certificates are issued for three (3) years.

What other permits are needed before I can start work?

Before providing service, ambulance companies must also have a license from the State of Florida (Florida Statutes, Chapter 401).  In addition you will need an Occupational License issued by Miami-Dade County. Depending on where the company is located, you may also need a municipal license. Furthermore the ambulance units must obtain valid inspection and operating permit decals issued by the CSD Vehicle Inspection Station prior to starting operations.

Back to Top Page Last Edited: Wed Jul 20, 2011 3:12:51 PM