How do I set up utilities when moving to Boca Raton or South Florida?

Who provides electricity?

FPL's tariff sheets titled "Communities Served" (effective January 1, 2026) list Boca Raton, Delray Beach and West Palm Beach in Palm Beach County, and Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Lighthouse Point and unincorporated Broward in Broward County.

Service at a specific address can still differ, so confirm the electric provider for your address and open the account in your name before move-in day.[1]

How do I start water, sewer and trash service?

Water is run locally, so the steps depend on where the home is. Check city limits first: Boca Raton notes that Palm Beach County serves parts of Boca Raton outside the city limits.

• City of Boca Raton: submit the application through the Utility Services customer portal at least 24 hours ahead, with a copy of your lease or settlement statement. As of 2026, typical residential deposits are $100 to $125 for owners and $300 to $375 for renters, billed when the account opens and refundable when it closes. Bills are bimonthly and include garbage charges; call Sanitation at 561-416-3367 to set up service for a new home.
• Unincorporated Palm Beach County: the Water Utilities Department opens residential accounts by phone at 561-740-4600 (option 4) or in person. As of 2026, most new residential accounts pay a $110 deposit and a $35 activation fee in advance; bring photo ID and a closing deed, settlement statement or lease.
• City of Fort Lauderdale: submit a Utility Service Application (notarized if sent by mail, fax or email) with photo ID, your Social Security number, a settlement statement signed by buyer and seller or a warranty deed (tenants provide a signed lease), and a deposit based on meter size. Allow three to five business days.[2][3][4][5]

Why does the first utility bill matter?

A utility bill in your name does more than keep the lights on. FLHSMV accepts a utility bill as one of the two proofs of Florida residential address needed for a Florida driver license, which you will also need for other new-resident steps.

If you are buying, ask the closing agent for a copy of the settlement statement early, since Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach County all accept it as proof for opening a water account.[2][4][5][6]