What the Pasco Housing Authority does
The Pasco Housing Authority is a local government agency that manages affordable housing programs in Pasco County, Florida. It administers public housing units, voucher programs that help tenants pay rent in private apartments, and other housing resources for low-income residents. The authority does not build or own all the housing itself — it contracts with private landlords, manages waiting lists, and processes the paperwork that connects tenants to affordable options.
If you live in Pasco County and need affordable housing, the Pasco Housing Authority is the place to start. They can tell you which programs are currently open, what documents you need, and how long the wait typically is. They also handle complaints about conditions in public housing and can answer questions about lease terms and tenant rights.
Key Takeaways
- The Pasco Housing Authority runs public housing units and the Housing Choice Voucher program, which pays part of your rent in private apartments.
- Both programs have waiting lists, and the wait time varies depending on the program and your income level.
- You must meet income limits based on your household size, and you will need to provide proof of income, identity, and residency.
- The authority's main office is located in Dade City, and you can reach them by phone or visit in person to ask about current openings.
- If you have a complaint about housing conditions or a lease dispute, the authority has a process for tenants to report problems.
Public housing units managed by Pasco Housing Authority
Public housing consists of apartments and homes owned or controlled by the Pasco Housing Authority. Rent is set at 30 percent of your household's adjusted gross income, which means lower-income households pay less. The authority maintains the buildings and is responsible for repairs and upkeep.
Public housing units are scattered across Pasco County in different communities. The number of available units is limited, and there is typically a waiting list. The wait time depends on how many units become available and how many people are ahead of you on the list. You can contact the authority to ask about current wait times for the specific area where you want to live.
Housing Choice Vouchers and how they work
The Housing Choice Voucher program, sometimes called Section 8, is often faster than public housing. Instead of living in a building the authority owns, you find a private apartment and the voucher pays a portion of the rent directly to the landlord. You pay the difference between the voucher amount and the actual rent.
The voucher amount is based on the fair market rent for your area and your household size. If you find an apartment that rents for less than the voucher covers, you pay even less. If the apartment costs more, you make up the difference — but the authority sets a limit on how much more you can be asked to pay.
The voucher program also has a waiting list, though it sometimes moves faster than public housing because landlords have more flexibility in where they rent. Once you receive a voucher, you have a set amount of time to find an apartment. The landlord must meet the authority's standards, and the authority inspects the unit before the voucher can be used.
Income limits and what documents you need
The Pasco Housing Authority sets income limits based on the area's median income and your household size. These limits change each year. A household of one might have a different limit than a household of four. You must fall below the limit to be considered, though some programs reserve units for extremely low-income households.
When you explore, you will need to bring proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), a photo ID, and proof that you live in Pasco County. If you receive benefits like Social Security or unemployment, bring documentation of those payments. If you have no income, bring a letter explaining your situation. The authority will verify everything you provide.
You will also need to pass a background check. The authority looks at criminal history and past evictions. Some offenses or evictions may disqualify you, though the authority considers the circumstances and how long ago the event occurred.
How to contact Pasco Housing Authority and current wait times
The Pasco Housing Authority's main office is located in Dade City. You can call them during business hours to ask about wait times, program openings, and what to bring when you visit. The phone number and office hours are on their official website.
You can also visit in person to pick up an process and ask questions. Bring your documents with you if you are ready to explore, or come just to learn about your options. Staff can explain the difference between public housing and vouchers and help you understand which program might work for your situation.
Wait times vary significantly. Public housing might have a wait of several months to several years depending on the area and unit type. The voucher program wait time changes as people move off the list and new vouchers become available. The authority can give you a realistic estimate when you call.
What happens after you explore
After you submit an process, the authority will verify your income, background, and residency. This process typically takes several weeks. You will be notified by mail or phone when a decision is made.
If you are approved, you will be placed on the waiting list in the order applications were received, unless you may have access to for a priority category. Some programs prioritize people who are homeless, have disabilities, or are elderly. Once a unit or voucher becomes available and your name reaches the top of the list, the authority will contact you.
If you are denied, the authority must tell you why and give you a chance to respond or appeal. You can request a hearing to dispute the decision if you believe the authority made an error.
Tenant rights and how to report problems
If you live in public housing managed by the Pasco Housing Authority, you have rights under federal law. The authority must maintain the property in safe, habitable condition. If there are problems — broken heat, mold, pests, or safety hazards — you can report them to the maintenance department.
If repairs are not made in a reasonable time, you can file a formal complaint with the authority. Keep records of when you reported the problem and follow up in writing. The authority has a process for handling complaints, and you cannot be evicted for reporting legitimate maintenance issues.
If you have a dispute with the authority about your lease, rent, or eviction, you can request a hearing. The authority must give you notice and a chance to be heard before taking action against you. Contact the authority's office to ask about the formal complaint process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the waiting list for public housing in Pasco County?
Wait times vary by location and unit type. Some areas have shorter waits than others, and it depends on how many units are available and how many people are on the list. Call the Pasco Housing Authority directly — they can tell you the current wait time for the specific area where you want to live.
Can I use a Housing Choice Voucher at any apartment?
No. The landlord must agree to accept the voucher, and the apartment must pass the authority's inspection. The rent cannot exceed the fair market rent limit set by the authority for your area. Many landlords accept vouchers, but some do not, so you may need to contact several before finding an available unit.
What if I have a criminal record or past eviction?
The authority considers your background but does not automatically disqualify you. They look at what happened, when it happened, and your circumstances. Contact the authority to discuss your situation before explore — they can tell you whether you are likely to be approved.
Do I have to pay utilities if I live in public housing?
It depends on the unit. Some public housing includes utilities in the rent, and some does not. The lease will specify which utilities you are responsible for. Ask about this when you explore or tour a unit.
What if I lose my job after I move into public housing?
Your rent is based on your income, so if your income drops, your rent will be recalculated. You must report changes in income to the authority. They will adjust your rent accordingly, which may lower your payment. Failure to report income changes can result in owing back rent.