Escaping winter and splitting time between homes is a luxury, but the details can get overwhelming fast. If Palm Beach is your seasonal haven, you want a plan that protects your property, keeps you compliant, and makes every visit effortless. This checklist walks you through what to do before you depart, how to live smoothly in season, and how to stay ready for storms. Let’s dive in.
Palm Beach seasons at a glance
Palm Beach’s high season typically runs from late fall through spring, when population and service demand climb with winter visitors. You can expect the busiest months to be roughly November through April, with fuller restaurants, events, and services during that window. For context on the town’s seasonal rhythm, review the overview of Palm Beach’s growth and tourism patterns in the local profile on Wikipedia (see Palm Beach overview).
Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 each year. Plan and maintain readiness year-round, and follow official updates from NOAA as the season approaches (NOAA hurricane outlooks and dates).
Before you head home: pre-departure checklist
Home systems and maintenance
- HVAC: schedule a service check and set your thermostat to about 75–78°F to control humidity and save energy.
- Water: consider turning off the main valve if you will be away for months, or install leak detection and an automatic shutoff.
- Pool, landscaping, and pests: arrange recurring lawn, pool, and pest-control visits to maintain curb appeal and reduce storm debris risk (seasonal home care tips).
- Appliances and perishables: clear perishables, unplug small appliances, and run cleaning cycles for washers and dishwashers.
- Security: verify locks, outdoor lighting, and alarms. Provide a trusted local contact with access codes. Set regular on-site checks.
Mail, bills, and subscriptions
- Choose the USPS option that fits your absence: Hold Mail, a Temporary Change of Address for seasonal forwarding, or Premium Forwarding Service. Each has lead times and rules, so set this up in advance (USPS service options).
- Set auto-pay and alerts for utilities, HOA, and security monitoring. Create online logins for quick remote management.
Insurance, taxes, and legal
- Homeowners coverage: confirm vacancy limits or endorsements with your insurer if the home will sit empty for an extended period.
- Flood coverage: if you want flood protection, remember new NFIP policies typically have a 30-day waiting period, so purchase well before storm season (FEMA flood insurance basics).
- Homestead and property taxes: first-time Florida homestead exemption applications are generally due by March 1. Review documentation standards and portability details with the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser (homestead FAQs and deadlines).
- Domicile and residency: changing your primary residence has legal and tax implications. Consult a CPA or attorney before making changes.
Rentals, HOAs, and municipal rules
- If you plan to rent for fewer than 180 days, register for Palm Beach County’s Tourist Development Tax and remit 6 percent on taxable rental receipts. Platforms may not remit county taxes on your behalf, so confirm your obligations (Palm Beach County TDT requirements).
- Review your municipality’s rules and your HOA or condo documents for minimum stays, registration, occupancy, noise, and parking limits. Requirements vary and can change, so verify before you list.
Documentation and contacts
- Create a quick-reference binder or secure digital folder with emergency contacts, insurance numbers, utility accounts, gate codes, and key instructions.
- Photograph interiors, exteriors, and valuables for your records. Keep an updated inventory for any future claims.
While you are in Palm Beach: live smoother in season
Healthcare and prescriptions
- Transfer or arrange prescriptions ahead of arrival so refills are seamless. If you need specialists, book early because high season raises demand.
- Know nearby hospitals and urgent care options. Schedule routine care in advance so you have appointments when you need them.
Transportation, reservations, and services
- Book flights and car rentals early during peak months at Palm Beach International Airport and surrounding airports.
- Plan for reservations at restaurants, cultural events, and clubs. Demand increases significantly during high season.
- Line up housekeeping, maintenance, and an on-call local point person. A named contact streamlines any urgent repairs or compliance questions.
Hurricane and emergency readiness
Know the season and stay informed
- Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Monitor NOAA updates and prepare early, even if you plan to be away (NOAA hurricane season overview).
- Download Palm Beach County’s PBC DART app for evacuation zones, shelter updates, and real-time alerts. You can also sign up for county notifications and preparedness tools (Palm Beach County Emergency Management).
Secure the property
- Service or close shutters and confirm impact windows are functioning. Trim trees and secure outdoor furniture before storms threaten.
- If you will be away during the season, instruct your property manager or local contact to activate shutters and bring in loose items when a storm is forecast.
Insurance and claims readiness
- Keep your policy numbers and agent contact handy. If you are considering flood insurance, remember the typical 30-day waiting period for new NFIP policies (FEMA flood insurance basics).
- Ask your insurer about vacancy rules to avoid surprises at claim time.
After a storm
- Follow county guidance for re-entry, power restoration, and debris pickup. Report dangerous wires to 911 and Florida Power & Light, and monitor outage updates from FPL (FPL outage and restoration updates).
Quick local resources
- Palm Beach County Emergency Management, alerts and PBC DART app: 561-712-6400 and online tools (Emergency Management hub).
- Tourist Development Tax registration for short-term rentals: Palm Beach County Tax Collector (TDT requirements).
- Property taxes and homestead exemption: Palm Beach County Property Appraiser (homestead FAQs).
- USPS seasonal mail services: Hold Mail, Temporary Change of Address, and Premium Forwarding Service (USPS options).
- FEMA flood insurance information and guidance (NFIP overview).
- Florida Power & Light outages: 1-800-4OUTAGE.
A smooth seasonal life in Palm Beach comes down to smart timing and trusted partners. Set your home, paperwork, and contacts now so you can focus on the lifestyle you came for when you return.
Ready to buy, sell, or set up a seamless seasonal plan in Palm Beach or greater South Florida? Connect with the luxury advisors at Brosda and Bentley Realtors for discreet guidance on acquisitions, premium rentals, and property management.
FAQs
What months are busiest for snowbirds in Palm Beach?
- High season typically runs November through April, when population and demand for dining, events, and services are highest (see Palm Beach overview).
When is hurricane season in Palm Beach, and how should I prepare?
- Hurricane season is June 1 to November 30; build a kit, confirm shutters, and use the county’s PBC DART app for zones, shelters, and alerts (Emergency Management hub).
Do I need to collect county tax if I rent my home short term?
- Yes, rentals of 6 months or less require Tourist Development Tax registration and 6 percent remittance to Palm Beach County, plus any applicable state taxes (TDT requirements).
How should I set my thermostat when I leave for the summer?
- A common setting is 75–78°F to control humidity and reduce energy use, paired with routine HVAC service and filter changes.
What are my options for handling mail during seasonal stays?
- Use USPS Hold Mail for short trips, a Temporary Change of Address for seasonal forwarding, or Premium Forwarding Service for weekly bundles (USPS options).
What should I know about homestead exemption as a seasonal owner?
- First-time homestead applications are generally due by March 1, and documentation standards are set by the county; review details with the Property Appraiser and consult a CPA on domicile considerations (homestead FAQs).
