Consumer Services

Dear Dry Cleaner:

This is being sent as a reminder that on November 20, 2008, the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners amended the Miami-Dade County Dry Cleaning and Laundering Ordinance by creating section 8A-124.10.5.  This amendment requires the posting of the actual price for cleaning per article of clothing and other fabric.  Beginning on January 30, 2009, Dry Cleaners located within Miami-Dade County will be expected to comply with the dry cleaning and laundering signage requirements. 

The following FAQ's were previously distributed to clarify the requirements.   

What does the amendment to the Miami-Dade County Dry Cleaning Ordinance mean to Dry Cleaners?
The amendment requires that dry cleaners post signs that identify the cost of dry cleaning services for specific items and fabrics.  The signs must be posted in a clear and conspicuous area for customers and potential customers to view.

Can cleaners charge more for cleaning than what is listed on the sign or printed, itemized receipt?  
No.  It is unlawful for cleaners to charge more than the applicable price on the sign or receipt. 

If an item requires special handling, can cleaners charge more than the stated price to clean that item?
A cleaner can charge a higher price when special handling is necessary and results in an increase to the price listed.  The cleaner must disclose the amount of and reason for the difference in price to the customer prior to cleaning the item.
Does this amendment apply when customers have their items picked up and dropped off by the cleaner?
Cleaning provided by means of a pick-up and drop-off delivery service shall be exempt from the requirements of this section.

Does this amendment have any impact on the Miami-Dade County Dry Cleaning Ordinance as it pertains to charging different prices for services based on gender? 
No.  It is unlawful for cleaners to charge different prices for services based solely on the customer's gender.

Are there penalties associated with violating the new provisions of the Dry Cleaning Ordinance?  
Yes.  A civil fine of $200 will be assessed for failure to post or maintain the sign.  A civil fine of $200 will be assessed for exceeding the maximum price stated.

In addition to the above, previously distributed, FAQ's, the following question has been raised by several local dry cleaners.

If my price list is extensive, am I required to post the entire price list for every item that could possibly be cleaned or laundered? 
The intent of the amendment is for consumers to receive pricing information for any and all items that do not appear on their price signage in advance of having their items cleaned or laundered.  If an item requires special handling that results in an increase to the price listed, the amount and reason for the difference in price must be disclosed to the customer prior to cleaning.

If you require additional information regarding the Miami-Dade County Dry Cleaning or Gender Pricing Ordinances, please do not hesitate to contact us at (305) 375-3677.

Sincerely,