The Sunshine State combines some of the key factors that make businesses thrive – favorable tax structures, welcoming government policies, high quality of life for employees, and a massive number of consumers.
State law has several requirements for companies operating within state jurisdiction, including licenses and permits. Read on to find out how to obtain a business license in Florida.
Florida Business License – Which Type of Licenses and Permits Do You Need?
Passionate entrepreneurs have countless options to start a profitable company in Florida. Depending on the company’s segment, the owner or team behind the business must acquire the appropriate licenses to operate legally.
Failing to comply with Florida law may result in serious legal consequences, which is a situation any sound-minded entrepreneur must avoid. Different licenses serve distinct purposes.
For example, certain businesses may require a professional license based on the owner’s education and background. Before applying for a license or permit in Florida, a business owner must identify:
- What is the company’s expertise?
- Which equipment will be used?
- What type of workforce is employed in the company?
- Which products the company needs to store and inventory
Obtaining a Business License – Who is Responsible for Licensing in Florida?
Depending on the nature of your company and its activities in business, you may need to apply with different agencies or government bodies.
The main government body in Florida is the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) responsible for licensing and regulating companies and professionals within state jurisdiction.
The DBPR has several branches that encompass a broad range of professional activities. For example, one of DBPR’s branches is the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) which administers and regulates licensing in the state’s real estate industry.
Companies of a specific nature must file for licensing with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which is an executive department of the state government.
An example of activities regulated by this department includes companies responsible for manufacturing, processing, packing, holding, or preparing food in Florida.
How to Apply for a Business License in Florida – The Basics
Once you find out the agency or government department responsible for licensing your business, the next step is to file an application.
Depending on the type of business license necessary for your business, you may need to file additional applications to the city and county where the company is located. In specific cases, a Florida business may require state licensing while waiving a professional licensing.
Currently, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation is responsible for regulating 35 types of companies, which are divided into an extensive list of subcategories with distinct licensing requirements.
Similar to other aspects involved in licensing a business in Florida, the list of requirements involved in the process varies depending on the company’s activities and which type of business it is developing.
Standard requirements may include professional examination, professional licensure, adequate insurance, and proof of financial stability. Special permits for storing and selling specific products are also common (e.g., alcohol and tobacco licenses).
Some businesses require permits to ensure the adequate operation of work equipment or compliance with safety requirements in the workspace.
Obtain a Business License in Florida – Work with a Competent Attorney from Jurado & Associates, P.A. Today
Waste no time – an expert licensing attorney from Jurado & Associates, P.A. is willing to help you succeed. Immediately call us at (305) 921-0976 or email [email protected] to schedule a consultation.
