By-Line: Brittany Kershaw, Palm Coast Government
Beginning June 1, 2025, the City of Palm Coast will begin passing through processing fees associated with credit card, debit card, and ACH/eCheck payments. This change follows direction from the Palm Coast City Council and applies to both online and in-person payments for a variety of City services, including Utility Bills, Code Enforcement Fines, Business Licenses, Building and Planning Permits, Business Inspection Fees, and Other miscellaneous payments.
Previously, the City absorbed these fees. Moving forward, they will be passed along to customers as part of the City’s broader cost management and fiscal responsibility strategy.
Fee Structure Effective June 1, 2025:
In-Person Payments:
- Customer Service payments made by credit/debit card: 3.5% processing fee (minimum fee: $2.50)
- Community Development payments made by credit/debit card or digital wallet: 2.45% processing fee.
Online Payments:
- Utility Bills (credit/debit/digital wallet): $1.95 per transaction
- Utility Bills (ACH/eCheck): $0.43 per transaction
- All other non-utility payments (credit/debit/digital wallet): 2.45% processing fee
- All other non-utility payments (ACH/eCheck): $0.43 per transaction
Transaction Limits:
- Maximum online payment for non-utility Billing (e.g., Building Permits): $50,000
- Maximum online payment for Utility Bills: $10,000
No fees will be charged for payments made by cash, personal or company checks, money orders, or bill payments initiated directly through your bank.
While this change represents a modest cost for customers who use credit cards or eChecks, it is projected to save the City approximately $700,000 annually—funds that can be redirected toward essential services and infrastructure improvements that benefit the entire Palm Coast community.
The City of Palm Coast appreciates the community’s understanding and support as we continue to promote long-term fiscal responsibility and transparency.
Review the City Council discussion from February 18, 2025, here: https://www.youtube.com/live/mw4CuEMnV0g?si=EsjYengOVNFEcLhY&t=6619
