Brownfields are abandoned, idled industrial and commercial facilities where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination. Brownfields not addressed by environmental remediation are an inefficient economic use of urban land; contribute to community decline, slum and blight; present a potential hazard to public health; and unaddressed, brownfields result in premature expansion and sprawl of urban development. Environmental remediation and re-use of brownfields is in the economic, environmental and community interests of the County.

In May 1999, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners adopted a policy establishing the Hillsborough County Brownfields Redevelopment Program. A brochure is available which provides an overview of the program.

In compliance with the Florida Brownfields Redevelopment Act, Hillsborough County's brownfields program includes a Brownfield Site Designation Process. In addition, Hillsborough County administers the Brownfields Cleanup Revolving Loan Fund through grants from the US Environmental Protection Agency. These funds are available in grants and loans to assist landowners with site cleanup.