Anna Maria Requires New Reentry Tags Ahead of Hurricane Season
As hurricane season approaches, Anna Maria city officials are urging residents and business owners to prepare now, including obtaining new reentry passes that will be required following any major storm-related evacuation.
According to Mayor Mark Short, all previous reentry tags are now invalid, and only newly issued passes will allow access back into the city after a disaster. The new tags, which will be valid through January 2027, are available at Anna Maria City Hall, located at 10005 Gulf Drive, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Each household or business is eligible to receive up to two passes. Residents must show identification with an Anna Maria address or other acceptable proof of residency. Non-resident property owners are required to present documentation confirming ownership, while business owners must provide evidence of a local business address.
Although it's strongly advised to obtain reentry tags before an emergency, those without passes may still receive one from Manatee County sheriff’s deputies at city checkpoints by showing appropriate documentation after a storm.
City officials also expressed concern about storm readiness, particularly regarding properties that remain damaged or unimproved. The most significantly affected structures have already been demolished, and proactive outreach has been conducted to ensure compliance with safety standards.
As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, Mayor Short emphasized the importance of following all evacuation orders and being ready for the possibility of power and water shutoffs during a major storm event.
Additional details about reentry passes and emergency protocols can be found on the city’s official website at cityofannamaria.com.
