Florida does not require a general business license. However, most Florida businesses are required to request a business tax receipt. Before starting a business in the state of Florida, you will likely need to purchase a Florida business license with the appropriate agencies. Depending on the type of business you start, you may need a business license in Florida that comes from a state, city, or county agency.
The State of Florida requires businesses and occupations to purchase permits or licenses to operate. Your company may also need to obtain a license at the state level if it works in other fields. Zoning laws may prohibit you from operating them in certain parts of your city, town, or county, and some places in Florida prohibit certain businesses from operating from home. In Florida, you may need other licenses or permits from your local government, depending on your business or location.
A business tax application must be filed with the Florida Department of Revenue and is often casually referred to as a seller's permit. Once you have submitted your documentation, paid all applicable fees and received your business license, you are ready to start operating legally in the state of Florida. Contact the appropriate local or state government office for renewal requirements for any additional licenses your company may have. The Division manages the State Library and Archives, supports public libraries, directs records management services, and is the designated information resource provider for the State of Florida.
For additional resources on starting a business and the types of business licenses you may need, Florida offers the Sunbiz website for common business application filing needs and resources. Florida makes running a business much easier than many other states by not requiring or issuing commercial operating licenses statewide. This applies to anyone who provides goods or services, whether operating a business from home or commercial premises. Failure to renew a license or permit can result in significant fines or fines and the temporary or permanent closure of your business.
You can run a business as a sole proprietor (only you) or general partnership (you and one or more partners) rather than forming a business entity such as an LLC or a corporation. While the federal government does not require or issue general business licenses, you may need to obtain licenses with specific government agencies depending on your company's industry.
