The Consumer Services Department (CSD) is best known for being the County’s consumer protection arm. In addition to providing consumer education and outreach, the CSD acts as a regulatory/licensing agency for a variety of specific industries. This edition of ConsumerWise provides useful insight into some of the businesses we regulate. For a complete listing of industries required to be licensed by the CSD Click Here.

The licensing process protects consumers by ensuring that the regulated enterprises they do business with meet minimum standards. It also assures them that when consumer trust is abused, the CSD has the authority to assist consumers and impose sanctions.

The CSD ensures that these businesses meet certain minimum operating standards and requirements, as prescribed by the County code, and by state and federal statutes. For example, some businesses are required to maintain a certain level of insurance coverage and to follow particular procedures in their dealings with consumers. Some must have specialized equipment and trained personnel to operate that equipment. We also require that some of the individuals working at these businesses be registered with the Department, have a certain level of certification and even undergo background checks.

Where unlicensed operators are found in these regulated areas, the CSD undertakes enforcement action and brings them into compliance.

Want to be ConsumerWise? Our Mediation Center can tell you if a regulated business is licensed. Call them at 305-375-3677 or Email us at consumer@miamidade.gov

Cathy Grimes Peel is the Director of the Miami-Dade County Consumer Services Department. The Department functions as the consumer information and protection arm for Miami-Dade County residents and visitors.