Residents of Pinellas County of all ages with special needs are eligible for the Special Needs Evacuation Program. This includes individuals who require oxygen, mobility support, routine care or medication assistance, transportation help, or electricity-dependent equipment. Registration is required in advance and can be completed online, by mail, fax, or through a healthcare provider. Forms are available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Registration ensures that participants may receive transportation and shelter support during mandatory evacuations, but transportation is not automatic. Eligibility is confirmed at the time of evacuation, and registrants must keep their contact information updated with Emergency Management to avoid delays.

When activated, the program provides access to designated special needs shelters staffed by nurses and medical personnel from the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County and Pinellas County Schools. These shelters provide oxygen and emergency power, though air conditioning may not be available during outages. Three meals per day are provided, but dietary restrictions are not accommodated, so residents with special needs should bring their own food items along with bedding or comfort items. Caregivers and immediate family are encouraged to accompany participants. Service animals are permitted in all shelters, though pets are not allowed in special needs shelters; arrangements for pets can be made through Animal Services. For those requiring a higher level of medical care, hospitals and nursing homes coordinate with the County to provide shelter and transportation if registered in advance.