Bay County Property Appraiser – Search & Access

The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office is responsible for providing fair and equitable property assessments, maintaining up-to-date parcel maps, and ensuring compliance with Florida’s property tax laws. As a trusted public resource, the office offers secure online tools that allow property owners, prospective buyers, and industry professionals to search and access essential data such as assessed values, ownership history, land use classifications, exemptions, and tax roll information. By delivering accurate and transparent records, the Bay County Property Appraiser supports responsible property ownership, informed real estate transactions, and accountability within the county’s taxation system.

Role of the Bay County Florida Property Appraiser

The Bay County Property Appraiser serves as an independent office responsible for valuing all real and tangible personal property within the county. Its primary role is to establish fair and uniform assessments that form the basis for local property taxes, in accordance with Florida Statutes. Beyond valuation, the office manages parcel mapping, ownership records, and exemption applications, ensuring that property data remains accurate and accessible to the public. By promoting transparency, accountability, and compliance with state property tax laws, the Bay County Property Appraiser supports the financial stability of local government services, including schools, law enforcement, and infrastructure. In this way, the office plays a central role in maintaining both fairness for taxpayers and efficiency in the administration of public resources.

Delivering Fair and Consistent Property Assessments

The Bay County Property Appraiser is tasked with ensuring that all property within the county is assessed accurately and fairly. By following guidelines set forth by Florida law, the office determines property values that form the basis for calculating property taxes. This process ensures that every property owner contributes their fair share while maintaining equity across residential, commercial, and agricultural properties.

Managing Parcel Maps and Ownership Records

In addition to property valuation, the office maintains comprehensive parcel maps and ownership records. These resources provide precise details on land boundaries, legal descriptions, and property transfers, supporting both private and public interests. Accurate mapping and record-keeping are critical for real estate transactions, development planning, and legal documentation.

Promoting Transparency and Compliance with Florida Property Tax Laws

Transparency is central to the work of the Bay County Property Appraiser. By offering public access to assessment data, exemptions, and tax roll information, the office helps property owners understand their rights and obligations under Florida property tax laws. This commitment to openness fosters trust while ensuring compliance with state requirements.

Clarifying the Location: Bay County, Florida

It is important to note that this office serves property owners specifically within Bay County, Florida. Residents and businesses can rely on the Bay County Property Appraiser for local property data and tax assessment information that reflects the county’s unique market conditions, demographics, and legal framework.

What the Bay County Florida Property Appraiser Does

The Bay County Property Appraiser is the constitutional officer responsible for identifying, locating, and valuing all property within Bay County, Florida. This work ensures that property taxation is carried out in a fair and uniform manner, as required by state law. The office evaluates real estate and tangible personal property, maintains official parcel maps and ownership records, and oversees exemptions such as the Florida Homestead Exemption. In addition to valuation, the Property Appraiser provides public access to property data and tax roll information, ensuring transparency and accountability. Every duty is performed in accordance with Florida Statutes, supporting both taxpayer rights and the financial stability of local government services.

Determining Property Values for Tax Purposes

The Bay County Property Appraiser is responsible for establishing the market value of all real estate and tangible personal property within the county. These valuations serve as the foundation for calculating property taxes, which fund critical public services such as education, public safety, and infrastructure. The office applies professional appraisal standards and follows Florida Statutes to ensure that every property is assessed fairly and consistently.

Maintaining Deeds and Parcel Records

Accurate records are essential to property ownership and taxation. The Property Appraiser’s Office maintains deeds, parcel maps, and ownership records that document legal descriptions, boundary details, and transfer history. These records support real estate transactions, land development, and local government planning while providing a reliable source of information for property owners and professionals.

Overseeing the Florida Homestead Exemption

The Florida Homestead Exemption provides significant tax savings to qualifying homeowners who use their property as a permanent residence. The Bay County Property Appraiser reviews applications, verifies eligibility, and applies the exemption in compliance with state law. This process ensures that eligible residents receive the benefits they are entitled to while maintaining fairness across the tax system.

Providing Public Access to Records and Tax Information

The Bay County Property Appraiser makes property data and tax information available to the public through secure online search tools and in-office resources. Property owners and professionals can access assessment values, exemption details, parcel maps, and ownership records. This commitment to transparency helps residents understand their tax responsibilities and supports informed decision-making in real estate matters.

Operating in Accordance with Florida Statutes

All responsibilities of the Bay County Property Appraiser are carried out under the framework of Florida Statutes. State law governs the methods of property valuation, the administration of exemptions, and the maintenance of public records. By adhering to these requirements, the office ensures consistency, legal compliance, and accountability in serving the taxpayers of Bay County.

Bay County Property Appraiser Search & Records

The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office provides online access to property records that are essential for homeowners, real estate professionals, investors, and businesses. Through the official portal, users can search property details, review ownership history, check assessed values, and view parcel boundaries. These tools support transparency, informed decision-making, and compliance with Florida property tax laws.

How to Search Property Records Online

The online search system makes it easy to find property data using multiple methods:

Search by Owner Name

• Enter the full or partial name of an individual or business.
• View all parcels registered under the entered name.
• Helpful for confirming multiple property holdings or verifying ownership.

Search by Parcel Number

• Use the unique parcel identification number (Parcel ID).
• Access property records directly without sorting through multiple results.
• Most accurate method when the Parcel ID is known.

Search by Property Address

• Enter the street address (house number and street name).
• Retrieve records showing ownership, assessed value, and parcel maps.
• Useful for homeowners reviewing their property details or buyers checking a specific location.

Property Research Tools

The Property Appraiser’s Office provides research tools that go beyond simple searches:

Interactive Parcel Viewer & GIS Maps

The parcel viewer uses Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to provide detailed, interactive maps of Bay County properties. Users can view parcel boundaries, dimensions, and geographic features, making it an essential tool for developers, surveyors, and property owners.

Sales and Transfer History Lookup

This feature allows users to review the history of sales and ownership transfers associated with a property. By analyzing past transactions, buyers and professionals can evaluate market trends, confirm transfer accuracy, and assess a property’s value over time.

Land Use and Zoning Details

Users can access information about land use classifications and zoning designations applied to each parcel. This data helps property owners, investors, and planners understand restrictions, development potential, and compliance requirements for a given property.

Step-by-Step Property Search Guide with the Property Appraiser Bay County

To successfully navigate the system, follow these steps:

1. Open the Bay County Property Appraiser’s official search portal.
2. Choose your preferred search method:
   • Owner name
   • Parcel number
   • Property address
3. Review the list of matching results.
4. Select the property record to view detailed information, including:
   • Assessed value
   • Ownership details
   • Exemption status
   • Parcel map and boundaries
5. Download or print records if needed for tax, legal, or real estate purposes.

Exemptions & Tax Savings

Property tax exemptions are one of the most effective ways for Bay County homeowners to reduce their annual tax burden. The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office is responsible for reviewing applications, verifying eligibility, and applying exemptions in accordance with Florida law. These exemptions not only lower the taxable value of qualifying properties but also provide long-term savings and stability for homeowners.

Who Qualifies for the Homestead Exemption

The Florida Homestead Exemption is the most common property tax exemption, available to residents who:

• Own the property as of January 1 of the tax year.
• Use the property as their permanent primary residence.
• Are legal residents of the state of Florida.

Qualifying homeowners can receive up to a $50,000 reduction in taxable value, which directly lowers the amount of property taxes owed each year.

How to Apply with the Bay County FL Property Appraiser

Applying for exemptions is done through the Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office. Homeowners typically need to:

1. Complete an official Homestead Exemption application.
2. Provide proof of ownership (such as a recorded deed).
3. Show proof of permanent residency (Florida driver’s license, voter registration, or Florida vehicle registration).
4. Submit the application by the annual deadline, usually March 1 of the tax year.

The office offers online tools and in-person assistance to ensure residents can apply accurately and on time.

Why Filing for Exemptions Matters

Exemptions provide significant financial relief while also protecting homeowners against rapid increases in property taxes. Filing for exemptions is not just about short-term savings but also about long-term stability.

Lowering Annual Property Taxes

Exemptions reduce the assessed value of a property, which directly decreases the amount of property tax owed each year. For many homeowners, this represents hundreds to thousands of dollars in annual savings.

Save Our Homes (SOH) Cap

The Save Our Homes amendment limits annual increases in the assessed value of a homesteaded property to a maximum of 3% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. This cap helps protect homeowners from sharp tax hikes during times of rapid market growth.

Portability of Exemptions

Homeowners who sell their primary residence and move to a new home in Florida may transfer (or “port”) their Save Our Homes benefit to the new property. Portability allows taxpayers to carry forward tax savings when upgrading, downsizing, or relocating within the state.

Additional Exemption Options

Bay County residents may also qualify for additional exemptions, including:

• Senior exemptions for low-income property owners over age 65.
• Disability exemptions for qualifying individuals with permanent disabilities.
• Veterans’ exemptions for eligible disabled veterans or their surviving spouses.
• Widow/widower exemptions for surviving spouses meeting specific criteria.

These programs provide targeted relief to groups with unique needs.

Long-Term Property Tax Stability

Exemptions do more than lower taxes in the short term. They provide stability by preventing sudden increases, encouraging long-term homeownership, and supporting affordability for families, seniors, and veterans. By filing exemptions, Bay County residents secure financial protections that remain in place for as long as they maintain eligibility.

Tax Roll & Millage Rates

The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office is responsible for preparing the annual property tax roll and applying millage rates that determine how much each property owner owes in taxes. These elements work together to ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance with Florida law while funding essential county services such as schools, law enforcement, fire protection, and infrastructure.

Defining the Property Tax Roll

The property tax roll is the official record of all taxable properties in Bay County. It includes details such as:

• Assessed property values.
• Ownership information.
• Parcel identification numbers.
• Exemptions applied (such as Homestead or senior exemptions).

Once certified, the tax roll becomes the foundation used by the Tax Collector to calculate and issue property tax bills.

How Millage Rates Are Established

A millage rate represents the amount of tax per $1,000 of assessed property value. For example, a millage rate of 15 mills equals $15 in taxes for every $1,000 of assessed value.

Millage rates are:

• Set annually by local governing authorities such as the Board of County Commissioners, school boards, and municipalities.
• Based on budget needs for funding public services.
• Applied uniformly to taxable properties within their jurisdiction.

The Property Appraiser does not set millage rates but ensures that they are correctly applied to each property’s taxable value.

Using Online Tax Estimator Tools

Bay County provides online tax estimator tools that allow property owners and buyers to project potential property taxes before receiving an official bill. These tools help users:

• Enter a property’s assessed value or estimated purchase price.
• Factor in exemptions such as the Homestead Exemption.
• Calculate an approximate annual tax bill based on current millage rates.
• Compare tax impacts when buying, selling, or making improvements to property.

Reading and Understanding TRIM Notices

Every year, property owners receive a Truth in Millage (TRIM) Notice, which outlines important tax details. A TRIM Notice includes:

• Assessed value: The value determined by the Property Appraiser.
• Exemptions: Any reductions applied to the property value.
• Taxable value: The value after exemptions, used to calculate taxes.
• Millage rates: Proposed rates set by taxing authorities.
• Estimated taxes: The projected tax amount if the proposed rates are adopted.

TRIM Notices are not tax bills but provide property owners with the opportunity to review values, confirm exemptions, and attend public hearings before final millage rates are adopted.

Understanding Property Values

Property values are the foundation of the tax assessment process in Bay County. The Property Appraiser’s Office determines values in accordance with Florida law to ensure fair taxation and transparency for property owners. Understanding the differences between market, assessed, and taxable values, along with how properties are appraised and reassessed, helps residents make informed decisions about their real estate and tax obligations.

Market, Assessed, and Taxable Value Explained

Property owners often see three different values on their records or TRIM notices:

• Market Value – The estimated price a property would sell for in the open market. This is based on comparable sales, location, property condition, and other economic factors.
• Assessed Value – The value determined by the Property Appraiser after applying state guidelines and adjustments, such as the Save Our Homes cap for homesteaded properties.
• Taxable Value – The value used to calculate property taxes after exemptions (like Homestead or senior exemptions) are applied to the assessed value.

By distinguishing these three values, property owners can better understand how their tax bills are calculated.

The Bay County Appraisers Valuation Process

The Bay County Property Appraiser uses a standardized appraisal process designed to ensure accuracy and fairness:

• Data Collection: Property characteristics, building size, land use, and improvements are recorded.
• Market Analysis: Recent property sales and economic conditions are reviewed.
• Valuation Methods: Cost, income, and market comparison approaches are applied depending on the property type.
• Review and Quality Control: Appraisals are checked for consistency and compliance with Florida Statutes.

This process ensures that assessments reflect current market trends while maintaining equity across all property classes.

Frequency of Property Reassessments

Florida law requires that all property in Bay County be reassessed annually to maintain fairness in taxation. While reassessments are performed each year:

• Market fluctuations may cause values to rise or fall.
• Homesteaded properties benefit from the Save Our Homes cap, which limits annual assessed value increases to 3% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower.
• Significant changes to a property, such as new construction or major improvements, may trigger adjustments outside of normal market trends.

Annual reassessments keep the tax roll accurate and ensure that every property owner contributes their fair share based on current conditions.

GIS Maps & Interactive Property Data

The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office provides an advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping platform that gives residents, buyers, and professionals access to interactive property data. This system integrates parcel boundaries, ownership details, land use classifications, and geographic layers, allowing users to view property information in a visual and highly detailed format. GIS tools are valuable for research, planning, and decision-making in real estate and development.

Benefits for Buyers, Sellers, and Investors

Interactive property data and GIS mapping provide advantages for a wide range of users:

• Homebuyers: Verify parcel boundaries, neighborhood layouts, and zoning information before purchasing.
• Sellers: Present accurate property details and maps to prospective buyers to improve transparency and trust.
• Investors: Analyze market activity, land use, and nearby development trends to make informed investment choices.
• Developers and Planners: Evaluate zoning overlays, flood zones, and infrastructure data for compliance and project feasibility.

These tools transform raw property records into actionable insights that support smarter real estate decisions.

Navigating the Bay County FL Property Appraiser GIS Mapping Platform

The Bay County GIS mapping platform is designed to be user-friendly while providing access to advanced data layers. Key features include:

• Parcel Search Tools: Locate properties by owner name, parcel ID, or address directly on the map.
• Layer Options: View zoning designations, land use categories, flood zones, aerial imagery, and infrastructure overlays.
• Interactive Boundaries: Click on a parcel to view details such as ownership, assessed value, exemptions, and property dimensions.
• Download & Print Options: Generate parcel maps and property reports for personal, professional, or legal use.

By combining mapping technology with official property records, the GIS platform delivers a comprehensive view of Bay County’s real estate landscape, making it an indispensable tool for residents, professionals, and government agencies alike.

Tangible Personal Property (TPP)

Tangible Personal Property (TPP) refers to physical assets used in a business or rental operation that are not permanently attached to real estate. The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office is responsible for assessing the value of TPP each year to ensure fair and equitable taxation in compliance with Florida law. Business owners, professionals, and rental property operators must understand their responsibilities regarding TPP filing to remain compliant and avoid penalties.

What Falls Under Tangible Personal Property

Tangible Personal Property generally includes assets that can be touched, moved, or used in the course of business. Common examples are:

• Furniture, fixtures, and office equipment.
• Machinery, tools, and industrial equipment.
• Computers, printers, and electronic devices.
• Leasehold improvements not permanently affixed to the property.
• Leased equipment used in business operations.

Personal household goods are not considered TPP unless they are used to produce rental income.

Who Is Required to File a TPP Return

The following entities are typically required to file a Tangible Personal Property Tax Return (Form DR-405) with the Bay County Property Appraiser:

• Businesses operating within Bay County, regardless of size.
• Owners of rental properties who furnish their units with items such as appliances or furniture.
• Professionals working from home if they use equipment or furnishings exclusively for business.
• Companies that lease, lend, or rent equipment within the county.

Even new businesses must file an initial return to establish their TPP record, even if the total value falls below exemption thresholds.

Important Filing Dates and Penalties

Compliance with deadlines is critical to avoid additional costs. Key filing information includes:

• Annual Filing Deadline: April 1 of each tax year.
• Exemption: The first $25,000 of assessed TPP value is exempt from taxation if a timely return is filed.
• Late Filing Penalties: Returns filed after April 1 may result in penalties of up to 25% of the total tax due.
• Failure to File: Not filing a return may lead to estimated assessments, higher tax liability, and statutory penalties.

By filing accurately and on time, businesses and property owners can secure exemptions, maintain compliance, and avoid unnecessary financial penalties.

Transparency & Public Records Access

The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office is committed to transparency by ensuring public access to property records, budget information, and audit reports. Florida’s Sunshine Law and Public Records Law guarantee that citizens have the right to review government records, fostering accountability and trust between the office and the community.

Open Records Policy and Availability

Property records maintained by the Bay County Property Appraiser are public information and accessible to anyone who requests them. These records include:

• Ownership details and transfer history.
• Parcel maps and legal property descriptions.
• Assessed values and applied exemptions.
• Tangible Personal Property filings.

Most records are available online through the Property Appraiser’s official portal, while others can be requested directly from the office.

Requesting Official Property Documents from the Bay County Property Appraiser Panama City FL Office

Individuals who require certified or official copies of property-related documents can submit a request to the Property Appraiser’s Office. Commonly requested documents include:

• Certified ownership reports.
• Legal descriptions and parcel maps.
• Value certifications for legal or financial purposes.

Requests can usually be made:

• Online via the official website.
• In person at the Property Appraiser’s Office.
• By mail or email depending on the document type.

Processing times and fees may apply for certified records.

Budget and Audit Transparency

The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office operates with financial accountability to taxpayers. Key transparency practices include:

• Publishing annual budget reports that outline operating costs and resource allocation.
• Conducting independent audits to verify proper use of funds.
• Making budget and audit results publicly available in compliance with Florida Statutes.

These measures ensure that the office not only provides accurate property assessments but also manages public resources responsibly.

Key Dates & Deadlines

The property tax system in Bay County follows a strict calendar established under Florida law. Knowing these dates is essential for homeowners, businesses, and investors to maintain compliance, secure exemptions, and avoid penalties. The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office provides clear guidance throughout the year, but it is the property owner’s responsibility to act before each deadline.

January 1 – Annual Property Value Snapshot

• Assessment Date: All properties in Bay County are assessed based on their ownership, use, and physical condition as of January 1 each year.
• Improvements & Changes: Any new construction, additions, or demolitions completed before this date will be factored into the current year’s assessment. Changes made after January 1 will not be reflected until the following tax year.
• Exemption Eligibility: Residency and ownership status as of January 1 also determine eligibility for exemptions such as the Homestead Exemption, senior exemption, and veterans’ exemptions. For example, if a property becomes a primary residence after January 1, the Homestead Exemption cannot be claimed until the next year.

March 1 – Deadline to File Homestead Exemption

• Filing Requirement: The Homestead Exemption application, along with other exemptions (senior, widow/widower, disability, veterans), must be submitted by March 1.
• Benefits: A timely Homestead Exemption filing can reduce taxable value by up to $50,000, resulting in significant property tax savings.
• Late Applications: Applications received after March 1 are automatically applied to the next tax year. Extensions are only granted in rare, extraordinary cases allowed under Florida law.

April 1 – Tangible Personal Property Return Due

• Who Must File: All businesses, rental property owners with furnished units, and professionals using equipment for business purposes must file a Tangible Personal Property (TPP) Tax Return (Form DR-405).
• Deadline: Returns must be filed with the Property Appraiser’s Office by April 1 of each tax year.
• Exemption: The first $25,000 of TPP value is exempt, but only if a return is filed on time.
• Penalties:
  • Late filings may result in a penalty of up to 25% of the total tax due.
  • Failure to file altogether can lead to estimated assessments, loss of exemptions, and additional statutory penalties.

August – TRIM Notices Distributed

• Purpose: In August, all property owners receive a Truth in Millage (TRIM) Notice. This notice is not a bill but an estimate of property taxes based on proposed millage rates.
• Information Included:
  • Assessed value determined by the Property Appraiser.
  • Exemptions applied to the property.
  • Taxable value after exemptions.
  • Proposed millage rates set by local taxing authorities.
  • Estimated property taxes if rates are adopted.
• Public Input: TRIM Notices also provide information about public hearings where property owners can voice concerns before tax rates are finalized.

Assessment Appeal Deadlines

• Right to Appeal: Property owners who disagree with their assessment or exemption status may file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB).
• Strict Deadline: Appeals must be filed within 25 days of the TRIM Notice mailing date, which is printed on the notice itself.
• Process:
  • File a petition through the VAB Clerk’s Office.
  • Provide evidence supporting your claim, such as comparable sales or documentation of exemption eligibility.
  • Attend a scheduled hearing before a magistrate or board member.
• Consequences of Missing the Deadline: If the 25-day window is missed, the property owner loses the right to appeal for that tax year, regardless of disagreement with the valuation.

Contact the Office

The Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office offers multiple locations and support channels for residents, businesses, and real estate professionals. You can reach them in person, by phone, fax, or email. Below are the contact details, including physical addresses and hours where available.

Main Office – Bay County Property Appraiser Panama City FL

• Address: 860 W. 11th Street, Panama City, FL 32401
• Phone: (850) 248-8401
• Fax: (850) 248-8447
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM CST, Monday through Friday

Satellite Location – Panama City Beach

• Address: 301 Richard Jackson Blvd, Panama City Beach, FL 32407
• Phone: (850) 248-8470
• Fax: (850) 233-5057
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM CST, Monday through Friday

Contact Directory

• Dan Sowell, CFA – Property Appraiser
  • Cell: (850) 832-2668
  • Email: dsowell@baypa.net

Office Hours and Online Support Services

• Regular business hours are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM CST, Monday through Friday.
• Key services offered online include:
  • Property search tools (by address, owner name, parcel ID).
  • GIS/parcel maps and interactive mapping platform.
  • Exemption application forms and Homestead filing tools.
  • TPP (Tangible Personal Property) return filing guidelines and assistance.

FAQs

Navigating property taxes, exemptions, and assessments in Bay County can be complex, especially for new homeowners, business owners, or investors. To make the process easier, the Bay County Property Appraiser’s Office provides clear guidance on the most common questions residents have about Florida property tax law and local requirements. From applying for a Homestead Exemption and understanding why property values change, to finding your Parcel ID, checking the latest millage rates, or learning how to appeal an assessment, these answers are designed to give you practical, step-by-step direction. Whether you are buying your first home, managing multiple investment properties, or simply trying to lower your annual tax bill, this FAQ section serves as a reliable reference to help you stay informed, avoid missed deadlines, and make confident decisions about your property in Bay County.

How do I apply for a Homestead Exemption in Bay County?

• Application Process: Homeowners must complete and submit a Homestead Exemption application to the Property Appraiser’s Office. Forms are available both online and at the Panama City main office or the Panama City Beach satellite location.
• Deadline: Applications must be filed by March 1 of the tax year for which you are applying.
• Required Documents:
  • Florida Driver’s License or State ID showing the property address.
  • Voter registration (if applicable) with the same address.
  • Vehicle registration, utility bills, or other proof of residency.
• Once approved, the Homestead Exemption automatically renews each year as long as the property remains your permanent residence.

Why has my property value increased or decreased?

Property values change based on several factors:

• Market Conditions: Rising or falling real estate sales in your neighborhood directly affect assessed values.
• Property Improvements: Additions such as pools, garages, or home expansions increase value.
• Damage or Removal: Storm damage, demolition, or partial removal of improvements can reduce value.
• Annual Reassessment: By law, the Property Appraiser must reassess property values every year as of January 1, ensuring they reflect current market conditions.

How can I find my Parcel ID using the Bay County Property Appraiser Search?

• Visit the official Bay County Property Appraiser website.
• Use the Property Search Tool, which allows you to search by:
  • Owner Name
  • Property Address
  • Parcel Number (if already known)
• After searching, the Parcel ID (also called the folio number) will be displayed along with detailed property information, including maps, assessed values, and exemption status.

What are the current Bay County millage rates?

• Definition: A millage rate is the tax rate applied to a property’s taxable value, expressed in mills (one mill equals $1 of tax per $1,000 of taxable value).
• Updates: Millage rates are set each year by local taxing authorities such as the County Commission, School Board, and municipalities.
• Where to Find Rates:
  • On your Truth in Millage (TRIM) Notice, mailed each August.
  • On the Property Appraiser’s official website under the Tax Roll & Millage Rates section.
• Rates may vary depending on your location within Bay County.

How do I challenge or appeal my property assessment?

• Review TRIM Notice: When TRIM Notices are mailed in August, carefully check your assessed value, exemptions, and proposed taxes.
• Informal Review: Contact the Property Appraiser’s Office directly to discuss concerns. Many issues are resolved without a formal appeal.
• Formal Appeal: If unresolved, file a petition with the Bay County Value Adjustment Board (VAB) within 25 days of the TRIM Notice mailing date.
• Documentation: Provide supporting evidence such as recent appraisals, comparable property sales, or proof of exemption eligibility.
• Hearing: The VAB will schedule a hearing where you can present your case.