One of the basic steps involved in the business formation process in Florida is identifying which business license the new company will need and how to obtain the legal document. Depending on the company’s structure and activities, several licenses may apply for the same business.Ā
Read on to find out the types of business licenses in Florida.
Types of Business Licenses in Florida – In Detail
General Business License
Some states require companies to obtain a business license simply to exist within state jurisdiction. Florida law has no provision requiring businesses to have a statewide license or permit to operate.
Conversely, companies may need to file for a general business license with the city or county where they are located. Depending on the case, a business may need to file for a general license with both.
Often referred to as a “business tax receipt,” a general business license grants the company the right to operate within the city or county. From corporations with multiple employers to home-based sole proprietorships, all Florida companies must file for this license.Ā
Zoning Permits
Depending on the location of a company in Florida, the owner may need to apply for a Certificate of Use and Occupancy (“C.U.”) or Zoning Permit. This license is required to verify whether the business is located in an appropriate space.
If a company’s location is not suitable for the type of business activity developed in that space, it is not possible to obtain this license.
Regulated Activity Licenses
Any company involving regulated activities at the state or federal levels must apply for additional licenses. For example, segments like aviation, mining, and telecommunications are federally supervised and regulated.
At the state level, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation is responsible for licensing 35 categories of professions and activities, including segments such as:
- Alcoholic beverages and tobaccoĀ
- CosmetologyĀ
- Construction industryĀ
- Electrical contractorsĀ
- Hotels and restaurantsĀ
- EngineeringĀ
- Veterinary medicineĀ
Other state departments and agencies are also responsible for licensing different professional segments. For example, the Florida Department of Health is responsible for licensing physicians, doctors, nurses, dentists, and health care providers in the state.
Tax Identification Number
When someone is born in the United States, that person receives a unique Social Security Number. Similarly, newly born companies receive an Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Unless the company is formed as a sole proprietorship, the new business owner is responsible for notifying the IRS and applying for an EIN. This number is required for tax identification purposes at the federal level.Ā
Can I Handle All Required Licenses and Permits on My Own?
Solid licensing and regulation laws are crucial to protect customers and establish a standard for all professions within Florida jurisdiction.
While there is no formal requirement to hire an attorney while applying for licenses and permits in Florida, this process may result in a time-consuming and stressful experience without proper legal guidance.
The situation can get even more complex if your company involves unusual or complex activities. With a legal advisor by your side, it will be easier to identify and obtain the licenses for your business.
Waste No Time with Uncertainty – Contact an Attorney at Jurado & Associates, P.A.
An expert Florida attorney from Jurado & Associates, P.A. is willing to help you succeed. Call us today at (305) 921-0976 or email [email protected] to schedule a consultation.Ā
