How To Get a Florida Business License—Explained

Like in most states, forming a business in Florida typically requires obtaining a license. While Florida does not issue a statewide license, all types of companies, including LLCs and corporations, need a local license.
For hassle-free registration, you need to understand the different license types and state guidelines. This article will explain what a local Florida business license is and guide you through the necessary steps to obtain one. We’ll also introduce Harbor Compliance, a reliable service provider that can expedite the licensure process.
Florida General Business Licenses
Florida Business License
Not required
General Business License licensure is not required on the State level in Florida.
Florida does not have a general business license at the state level, but local licenses are often required.
Local General Business Licenses
City of Atlantis Business Tax Receipt
Initial Registration
Form: | Please contact City Hall at (561) 965-1744 for Tax Receipt forms |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Required Attachments: | Businesses doing work in the City of Atlantis:
Businesses located within the City of Atlantis:
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Notes: | Renewal notices are mailed prior to the expiration of the license |
Required Attachments: | Businesses doing work in the City of Atlantis:
Businesses located within the City of Atlantis:
|
City of Boca Raton Business Tax Certificate of Use
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $28 application fee + $45 certificate of use fee + $45 code inspection fee + $45 fire inspection fee + $105 business tax |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $105 |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Bonita Springs Business License
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Registration Not Required
Not required
City of Boynton Beach Business License
Agency: | City of Boynton Beach Development Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | Yes |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee is determined by business type. |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Casselberry Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Casselberry Community Development Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Chipley Business License
Agency: | City of Chipley City Clerk (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type; see tax license fee schedule for details. |
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type; see tax license fee schedule for details. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Crestview Business License
Agency: | City of Crestview - Community Development Services - Planning and Zoning (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Daytona Beach Occupational/Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Daytona Beach Permits and Licensing (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Debary Business Tax Reciept
Agency: | City of Debary (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | Yes |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Requirement Notes: | Volusia County Business Tax Receipt is required along side the City of DeBary Business Tax Reciept, a copy of any required state license, and a copy of the fictitous name registration. |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail. |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type + fire inspection fee Fees may be prorated. |
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail. |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type + fire inspection fee |
Due: | Annually by October 1. |
City of Delray Beach Business Tax Receipt
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail or in person |
Agency Fee: | Fees are determined by business type. See fee schedule. |
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail or in person |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type. See fee schedule. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Deltona Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Deltona Business Tax Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determind by business type |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Destin Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Destin Community Development Department - BuildingDivision (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by gross reciepts |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determiend by gross reciepts |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Doral Business License
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. |
Before you Apply: |
|
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by Septemeber 30. |
City of Fort Lauderdale Business Tax
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type and size. |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type and size. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Fort Myers Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Fort Myers Community Development Department - Planning Division (FL) |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | In-person |
Agency Fee: | Fees depend on business services. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees depend on business services. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Fort Pierce Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Fort Pierce City Clerk's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Instructions: | Step 1: |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determind by business type |
Notes: |
|
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Gainesville Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Gainesville Financial Services Department - Billing & Collection (FL) |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees are determined by business type. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees are determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Greenacres Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Greenacres Building Division (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $69 nonrefundbable application fee + fee determined by busines type |
Notes: | All new Commercial Businesses will require a safety inspection |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Lake City Occupational License
Agency: | City of Lake City - Growth Management Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | Forms are not currently available online. Call the Growth Management office to have one sent via email with instructions on the application process. |
Filing Method: | Mail or email |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Lake Mary Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Lake Mary City Clerk's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Lake Worth Beach Business License
Agency: | City of Lake Worth Beach - Community Sustainability Office - Business Licenses (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Town of Lantana Business Tax Reciept
Agency: | Town of Lantana Development Services Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by gross reciepts |
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by gross reciepts |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Largo Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Largo - Community Development Services - Business Tax Receipt |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Longwood Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Longwood (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Lynn Haven Business Tax Certificate
Agency: | Lynn Haven Building Department - Business Tax Section (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Agency Fee: | Varies by business activity. Unspecified businesses pay a fee of $50. |
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Agency Fee: | Varies by business activity. Unspecified businesses pay a fee of $50. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Maitland Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Maitland Community Development Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | The fee for October through September is $154.26. Prorated quarterly + registration fees based on resdiential or non residential business type |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $154.26 |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Melbourne Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Melbourne Financial Services (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $25 application fee |
Turnaround: | 5-10 business days |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | You must request for an invoice to be created and emailed to you. Call 321-608-7038 or email business.tax.receipts@mlbfl.org to request an invoice and notify of any changes needing to be made. If you have a state license, please include a copy with your email. An invoice will be emailed to you in 1-3 business days. Once you receive this invoice, you may pay online. This same link will be provided with your emailed invoice. |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Penalties: |
|
City of Milton Occupational Business License
Agency: | City of Milton Economic Development Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by October 31. |
Miramar Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Miramar Financial Services Department - Business Tax Division (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Agency Fee: | $25 application fee + license fee determined by business type. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | The renewal fee is determined by business type and inventory. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Niceville Business Tax Receipts
Agency: | City of Niceville Building & Inspections Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | Email License@nicevillefl.gov |
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $40 base fee + fee dtermined by business type. See fee schedule here |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by gross reciepts |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Orange City Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Orange City Clerks Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $15 application fee + fee determined by business type + fire marshal fee + sign permit fee |
Turnaround: | 7-10 business days |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Orlando Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Orlando - Permitting Services Division - Business Tax Section (FL) |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary and are based on factors such as square footage, number of workers, or cost of inventory. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary and are based on factors such as square footage, number of workers, or cost of inventory. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Notes: | Registered businesses must also complete an Annual Declaration to ensure that business information is up-to-date. |
City of Ormond Beach Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Ormond Beach - Building Division (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $30 |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Oviedo Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Oviedo Zoning Division (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | Request a preapplication meeting by calling 407-971-5796. These meetings are held every Wednesday afternoon and should be scheduled and confirmed one week prior to the meeting date. |
Filing Method: | In person |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Palm Bay Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Palm Bay (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Turnaround: | 10 -14 business days |
Notes: | Upon receipt of the City of Palm Bay’s Business Tax Receipt, you will need to contact the Brevard County Tax Office at 400 South Street, 6th Floor, Titusville, FL 32780 or visit www.brevardtc.com/Business to apply online. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Palm Beach Gardens Business Tax Receipt - Out of Town Business
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $30 application fee |
Required Attachments: | Copy of your local business tax receipt, certificate of insurance, and a copy of state license. |
Registration Renewal
Instructions: | To log in to renew, ensure that you have the business tax number to review infromation. |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Renew your City of Palm Beach Gardens Business Tax Receipt if the fees are less than $5,000.00. Fees will be determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Law: | |
Penalties: | Business tax receipts that are not renewed when due and payable are delinquent and subject to a delinquency penalty of ten percent for the month of October, plus an additional five percent for each subsequent month of delinquency until paid. However, the total delinquency penalty may not exceed 25% of the business tax for the delinquent establishment. |
Palm Springs Business Permit
Agency: | Village of Palm Springs Zoning & Building Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | In person |
Agency Fee: | $50 permit fee. The fee is pro-rated to $25 for entities that apply for a license between April 1 and October 1. |
Notes: | Applications must be requested from the department. |
Registration Renewal
Agency Fee: | $50 |
Due: | Annually by October 1. |
Panama City Occupational License
Initial Registration
Form: | Business License Application and Sign and Development Questionnaire |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Annual license fees range from $25.00 to $2,500.00 depending on the occupation/service type |
Registration Renewal
Form: | On August 1st of each year a renewal statement is mailed out to each occupational license holder |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Annual license fees range from $25.00 to $2,500.00 depending on the occupation/service type |
Due: | Annually by October 1. |
Pensacola Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Pensacola Planning & Zoning Division - Business License Section (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary by business type. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Pinellas Park Business Tax Reciept (Occupational License)
Agency: | City of Pinellas Park (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by gross reciepts. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by gross reciepts. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Plant City Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Plant City - Finance Department - Business Tax Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | In-person, fax, or drop-box |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business and will be invoiced upon receipt of the application |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Port St. Lucie Business Tax Receipt
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined bybusiness type.Business Tax Receipts are pro-rated to half-year fee beginning April 1 for new businesses. |
Before you Apply: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of St. Cloud Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of St. Cloud Community Development Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Sanford Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Sanford Developmental Services - Building Division (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
City of Sarasota Local Business Tax License
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. See fee schedule. |
Registration Renewal
Instructions: | A copy of your renewal notice, current copy of your Sunbiz registration, current copy of your license, if any, must accompany your payment or there will be a delay in processing your renewal. |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type and payment of taxes. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Notes: | Renewal Notices sent via regular mail are color coded for your convenience – Business tax renewals are PINK and Professional tax renewals are GREEN. If you have BOTH a business and professional tax certificate, you will receive SEPARATE renewal notices for each. These notices may arrive in separate envelopes. When paying by check, you may combine your payment for both renewals; however separate tax certificates will be issued for the business and the professional. |
City Of Seminole Local Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Seminole Building Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by gross reciepts |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by gross reciepts |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Tampa Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Tampa Business Tax Supervisor (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Penalties: |
|
City of West Melbourne Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of West Melbourne (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $20 application fee + fee based on business type |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
City of Wilton Manors Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | City of Wilton Manors Community Development Services (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | The amount of tax will vary according to the business type and size. The fee is determined upon approval of the application and due at time of issuance. |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type and size |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Required Attachments: |
|
Winter Park Business Certificate
Agency: | Winter Park Planning & Zoning Department (FL) |
Initial Registration
Instructions: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees depend on business services. See the Annual Fee Schedule for details. |
Registration Renewal
Instructions: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees depend on business services. See the Annual Fee Schedule for details. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Brevard County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Brevard County Tax Collector's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | Mail or online |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by the third week in July. |
Broward County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Broward County Treasury Division (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Collier County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Collier County Tax Collector (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | Visit the Business Tax Receipts webpage and download the form applicable to the business location on the right side of the page |
Filing Method: |
|
Agency Fee: | Call the Collier County Tax Collector for the appropriate fee |
Registration Renewal
Form: | Visit the Business Tax Receipts webpage and download the form applicable to the business location on the right side of the page |
Filing Method: |
|
Agency Fee: | Call the Collier County Tax Collector for the appropriate fee |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Columbia County Local Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Columbia County Tax Collector (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $30 |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $30 |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Jacksonville/Duval County Local Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Duval County Tax Collector's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Requirement Notes: | See check list here. |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type. |
Law: |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | Mail, online or in person. |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Escambia County Business Tax Receipt License
Agency: | Escambia County City Business Tax Receipt Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $26.25 (Businesses that initially register from April through June pay half the standard fee.) |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $26.25 |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Hillsborough County Local Business Tax Receipt
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee/tax determined by business type. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee/tax is determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Required Attachments: | If your business, profession, or occupation is regulated by the state or county agencies, a copy of the documents verifying compliance may be required by our office prior to renewing your business tax receipt online. This documentation can be sent to our office via email to businesstax@hillstax.org or you may fax it to (813) 612-6748. |
Indian River County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Indian River County Tax Collector's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $40 |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $40 |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
A local business tax receipt is issued by the Tax Collector on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners for the privilege of operating a business in Lee County. Anyone providing merchandise or services to the public within the jurisdiction of Lee County, even a one-person company or home-based occupation, must obtain a Lee County business tax account to operate unless specifically exempted.
Lee County Local Business Tax License
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail or online. |
Agency Fee: | Full Year Fee (Oct – Sept): $50.00, Half Year Fee (Apr – Jun): $25.00 , Quarter Year Fee (Jul – Sept): $12.50. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $50 |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Leon County Business Tax Receipt
Not required
General Business License licensure is not required on the County level in Leon County.
Martin County Business License Tax Receipt
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $26.25, prorated fees are avaiable after October 1. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $26.27 |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Penalties: | On October 1st, unpaid Local Business Tax is delinquent and subject to penalties each month thereafter. |
Miami-Dade County Local Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Miami-Dade County - Tax Collector - Local Business Taxes Section (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail, in-person, or online |
Agency Fee: | Fees are determined by the nature and location of the business, number of employees, and other characteristics |
Before you Apply: | Review your business tax category to see additional requirements or if you are eligible for an exemption |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees are determined by the nature and location of the business, number of employees, and other characteristics |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Okaloosa County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Okaloosa County Office of the Tax Collector (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $35 per location |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $35 per location |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Orange County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Orange County Tax Collector - Business Tax Department (FL) |
Law: | |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail or in-person |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary by business activities and other factors. |
Notes: | The cities of Apopka, Belle Isle, Eatonville, Edgewood, Maitland, Oakland, Ocoee, Orlando, Windermere, Winter Garden and Winter Park require municipal Business Tax Receipts. A municipal Business Tax Receipt must be obtained before applying for an Orange County Business Tax Receipt. |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | Mail, in-person, or online |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary by business activities and other factors. If submitting payment using a credit or debit card, processing fees apply.
|
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Notes: | Renewal notices/forms are sent in the mail prior to expiration. |
Osceola County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Osceola County Tax Collector's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by gross reciepts |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Palm Beach County Local Business Tax Receipt
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Filing Method: | Mail or in person. |
Agency Fee: | Once the application has been processed, a client service specialist will call to provide payment instructions. |
Registration Renewal
Form: | Local Business Tax Receipt Registratoin Application (Renewal) |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Once the application has been processed, a client service specialist will call to provide payment instructions |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Penalties: | Deliquent fees are effective on October 1. See here for schedule. |
Pasco County Business Tax Reciept (Occupational License)
Agency: | Pasco County Tax Collector Office - Office of Economic Growth (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Determined by business type. Fee will advised once application is complete. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Polk County Local Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Polk County Tax Collector (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | There are two applications for Local Business Tax Receipts. One is for applications being submitted July through September and one is for applications being submitted October through June |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees vary based on the nature of the business |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Notes: | There is no application to renew a Local Business Tax Receipt in Polk County. To complete a renewal use the online portal to pay the annual business tax |
Santa Rosa County Business Tax Reciept
Agency: | Santa Rosa County Tax Collector's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee determined by business type. |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Sarasota County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Sarasota County Tax Collector (FL) |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees depend on business services. See the Fee Schedule for details. |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fees depend on business services. See the Fee Schedule for details. |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Seminole County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Seminole County Tax Collector's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: |
|
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: |
|
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
St. Lucie County Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | St. Lucie County Tax Collector's Office (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Instructions: | To obtain your county Local Business Tax Receipt, you MUST complete the following steps: 1. If you are using a name other than your legal first and last name only, you must register with the Florida Division of Corporations. 2. Determine what jurisdiction your business will be in, whether it is the city limits of Port St. Lucie, city limits of Fort Pierce, within St. Lucie Village or in the unincorporated area of St. Lucie County. (Click here to determine the jurisdiction for your business). If your business is located in a municipality/city limit, you must obtain your Business Tax Receipt from that municipality in addition to St. Lucie County. All businesses operating within city limits, by law, must obtain City and County Business Tax Receipts in order to operate legally. Unless you obtain both Receipts you will be considered in violation of the Local Business Tax Receipt Ordinance. This process will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. You will be required to upload digital files to complete your application.
|
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee ranges from approximately $9.00 - $45.00 depending on the business, number of employees (or number of seats in a restaurant, or the number of categories on your BTR). |
Turnaround: | 48-72 hours |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Fee ranges from approximately $9.00 - $45.00 depending on the business, number of employees (or number of seats in a restaurant, or the number of categories on your BTR). |
Due: | Annually by September 30. |
Volusia County Business Tax Reciept
Agency: | Volusia County Department of Business Services - Revenue Services (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Filing Method: | |
Turnaround: | 2 to 5 business days. |
Required Attachments: | Social Secuirty number or Federal Employer ID number Fictitious name registration State License Number "Speciality" Contractor License City License Number |
Registration Renewal
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | Based on businesss type + convenience fees. Credit card payment convenience fee = 2.6% w/$1.95 minimum. E-Check payment convenience fee = $1.50. |
Due: | Annually by October 1. Bills for each year are mailed July 1. A new receipt is issued for each year the tax is paid. |
Wakulla County Local Business Tax Receipt
Agency: | Wakulla County - Planning and Community Development Department (FL) |
Foreign Qualification is Prerequisite: | No |
Registered Agent (Special Agency) Required? | No |
Initial Registration
Form: | |
Instructions: |
|
Filing Method: | In-person or Mail |
Agency Fee: |
|
Required Attachments: |
|
Registration Renewal
Form: | Renewal forms are mailed out in July. |
Filing Method: | |
Agency Fee: | $35 + $2 convenience fee if using a credit card |
Due: | Annually by September 30 |
Types of Florida Business Licenses
While Florida doesn’t issue statewide licenses for most businesses, it requires licensing for industries that need extensive training or carry potential hazards to customers. Some examples include security, healthcare, architecture, and engineering.
The following agencies mandate licenses for such occupations:
- Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
- Florida Department of Health
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
If you form an entity in Florida that doesn’t meet these criteria, you can obtain the following licenses:
- Local business license
- Sales tax license
- Federal license
Local Business License
The majority of Florida counties require businesses to get a local business license called a “business tax receipt,” but certain areas in counties like Sumter County do not require one. Keep in mind that many cities also require a license in addition to your county’s business tax receipt.
You can contact your local county to know whether you’re liable to get one and then register your company with Florida’s Department of Revenue.
Sales Tax License
Also known as a seller’s permit, the sales tax license is mandatory for any firm conducting business via a tangible property or having a sales tax nexus—i.e., generating more than $100,000 worth of taxable sales each year.
You can either file for this license online using the official website of Florida’s Department of Revenue or send a paper application.
Federal License
A federal license is mandatory for businesses that are governed by federal agencies. If your business is part of industries like aviation, commercial fisheries, and radio and television broadcasting, you’ll need a federal business license.
Obtaining a Florida Business License
The process of obtaining a Florida business license varies for different counties and/or cities, but it typically involves the following steps:
- Register your company
- Apply for a local business license
- Check for additional licenses
Register Your Company
Register your firm with the state of Florida to be eligible for a license. For LLCs, you’ll have to submit your articles of organization. The filing cost for LLCs in Florida is $125 (including the registered agent fee). For submitting every article of correction or change of statutory agent, the state will charge you an extra $25.
Apply for a Local Business License
While LLCs need to register their firm, sole proprietors can request a license under their own name. You can get a local business license using multiple methods like:
- Filling out an online form
- Submitting an application via mail
- Submit an application in person
These options may not be available in all counties and cities, so it’s best to check with your local tax collector. Areas like Palm Beach County allow citizens to apply online, by mail, and in person.
Check for Additional Licenses
Some municipalities will ask you to get a city-specific tax receipt in addition to your county’s license. In such cases, check with your city’s governing body if you need one. The validity date for city-based licenses varies from one location to another so make sure you’re updated on when you need to renew.
Keeping up with your county’s and city’s licensing laws can be time-consuming and lead to penalties if not followed. To ensure your business is licensed correctly in Florida, partner with a professional service provider like Harbor Compliance.
Harbor Compliance—The Solution to Efficient Business Licensing
Keeping up with every district’s license requirements in Florida can be overwhelming for any business owner. That’s why we offer our Managed Annual License Service that enables you to obtain any business license you may need and remain in good standing with the state.
Partnering with us will also allow you to be updated on the latest license regulation changes at a district level. Here are some benefits of using our service:
- Team of experts—We’ll connect with you to learn about your business and industry, and provide tailored support to ensure you retrieve all the licenses you need to meet all regulatory requirements in your state.
- Save time—We handle all licensing steps from filling out the initial forms to renewal, providing transparency throughout so you can easily check your renewal dates and ensure that every document/form is sent to the state on time.
- Ongoing support—You can enjoy ongoing support for any license updates. We’ll be here to help you obtain a new license if you ever change your state or open a new business in Florida.
The Role of License Manager
As part of our Software Suite, the License Manager module provides real-time information on all your current business licenses and their renewal dates. It further lets you set automated notifications and include important attachments like instruction documents, ensuring your company is always one step ahead of all renewals.
The License Manager also displays district-level license regulation changes using our proprietary requirements database—Compliance Core™.
How To Order Harbor Compliance’s Managed Annual License Service
The process of ordering our Managed Annual License Service is completely straightforward. Here’s all you need to do:
- Visit the Business License Service page.
- Click on the Order Online option.
- Fill out the General Business License Order form as required.
- Hit Check Out.
Once complete, our team will begin working on preparing your license filings and provide timely updates on its completion.
Additional Harbor Compliance Services
Helping businesses obtain licenses isn’t our only forte. From registering your business to dissolution and withdrawal, we can help you meet the regulatory requirements. The table below covers our most popular service categories:
Service Category | Services |
---|---|
Nonprofit formation | Turn to us for delegating your charity registration work. We also provide assistance for nonprofit incorporation and 501(c) tax-exempt formation needs. |
Document filing and retrieval | We can help you retrieve articles of reinstatement, certificates of authority, certificates of good standing, amendments, and certified copies and deliver documents to the secretary of state on time with our Drop-off Filing service. |
Business licensing support | Besides general business licenses, you can also trust us to obtain and renew industry-specific ones for firms in sectors like construction and engineering. |
Registered agent service | We can act as your registered agent and receive all legal notices on your behalf. Use the Change of Agent service to replace your existing agent effortlessly. |
BOI reporting | From storing ownership information of all your entities in a secure Records Manager to filing up to four initial, corrected, or updated reports annually, our comprehensive BOI reporting service lets you stay in good standing with the state at all times. |
Tax registration | Use our assistance to get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) and leverage services like payroll tax registration, and sales and use tax registration to meet the state’s regulatory requirements with zero hassle. |
Entity lifecycle management | Opening a new entity? Entrust us with your name reservation and DBA management. Stay compliant throughout your entity’s lifetime with timely initial and annual report filing. Our withdrawal service further assists you with dissolution paperwork, helping you avoid potential penalties. |
Florida Business License FAQs
Below, you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions regarding the state of Florida business license. Visit our Information Center to access more detailed resources.
Yes. While Florida does not issue a general statewide license to do business, you’ll likely have to get a tax receipt with your specific city and/or county. Only companies in certain industries like agriculture and aviation require a Federal license to legally operate in the state.
All counties and cities in Florida have varying license requirements to a certain degree. Fees vary by city and county, but most business tax receipts need to be renewed annually by September 30. To get a tax receipt, visit your county or city’s governing body to learn the latest licensing requirements.
Typically, you’ll get your business license in a few weeks time after applying. Depending on your city and/or county, you may even be able to download it online. Check for any instructions that may require you to include your license at your main office.
Open the Door to Simplified Licensing With Harbor Compliance
While there is no general statewide business license in Florida, firms need to obtain a sales tax receipt to operate. Getting such a license means visiting your official city and/or county and staying updated with their ever-evolving regulations.
With Harbor Compliance’s Managed Annual License Service, you can easily delegate the entire licensure and renewal process to save valuable hours and focus on your primary work.
Ready to get started? Order the Managed Annual License Service to outsource your licensure workload to us. You can also check out our FREE Harbor Compliance Score™ and see your business’ current standing. From here, you can:
- Contact us to receive a completely customized solution as per your business needs.
- Schedule a free software and understand how our platform works before taking the next step.
Visit our Information Center and explore the table below to learn about general business licensing in all states across the U.S.:
