The Fair Housing Act prohibits most housing discrimination on the basis of membership in seven protected classes: race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, and national origin. The Florida Fair Housing Act contains many of the same protections but is more expansive.
Leon County’s Fair Housing Ordinance prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of a dwelling based on a person’s membership in thirteen protected classes: age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, familial status, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation. Furthermore, it is unlawful in Leon County to advertise the sale or rental of a dwelling indicating any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on membership in one of these protected classes.
The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) investigates housing discrimination and enforces fair housing laws nationally. The Florida Commission on Human Relations is the primary state agency charged with identifying and eliminating unlawful discrimination in housing.
Upcoming Community Events
Check out these upcoming community events in recognition of National Fair Housing Month and National Civil Rights Month in April.
2024 Big Bend Fair Housing Conference
When: Tuesday, April 23, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Parkview at Cascades, 414 E. Bloxham Street
The event brings together affordable housing, fair housing, disability rights, community development, for- and non-profit organizations, families, and supporters across the North Florida and South Georgia Big Bend areas to discuss the latest issues in fair and affordable housing policies.
Register for the Big Bend Fair Housing Conference.
2024 Empowering Communities Civil Rights Ceremony
When: Friday, April 26, at 6 p.m.
Where: Hotel Duval Horizon Ballroom, 415 North Monroe Street
Enjoy an evening dedicated to celebrating and honoring Tallahassee and Big Bend community members.
Purchase tickets for the 2024 Empowering Communities Civil Rights Ceremony.
To File a Complaint
Florida Commission on Human Relations
4075 Esplanade Way #110
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
850-488-7082
Atlanta Regional Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO)
U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development
Five Points Plaza, 40 Marietta Street, 16th Floor
Atlanta, Georgia 30303-2806
404-331-5140 or 1-800-440-8091
Housing Discrimination Information and Complaint Form
If you need guidance on how to file a complaint, contact:
Jelani Marks, Leon County Housing Services Manager
Human Services and Community Partnerships
615 Paul Russell Road
Tallahassee, Florida 32301
850-606-1900