Licensing

The following provides basic information on local and state requirements needed to start a business in Florida. To obtain information on a specific license, state and local phone numbers are provided.

State Licensing Agencies

Many businesses and professions are licensed by the state. To determine if a state license is required for a particular business, call 1-850-245-6000.

Fictitious Name Registration

If your business name on your business tax receipt is other than the legal name of the owner(s), it must be registered or re-registered as a fictitious name with the Division of Corporations. If you have any questions, please call 850-245-6059 or 850-245-6052.

Local Licensing

Local business tax receipts are required for most businesses and are issued by counties and cities. 

If your business is located within the city limits of an incorporated municipality, a city license must be procured before a County license can be issued. Please contact Call City Hall at 863-763-3372 to start your application process.

If your business is located outside the city limits, please contact Building & Zoning for your approval sheet at 863-763-5548.

Once City License or County approval sheet has been obtained you will need to visit the Okeechobee County Tax Collector’s office for issuance of the Business Tax Receipt for the County.


FAQs

Q. How much does a Business Tax Receipt cost?
A. To obtain this information, contact the Okeechobee County Tax Collector at (863) 763-3421.

Q. When do I need an Okeechobee County Business Tax Receipt?
A. Any person (legal entity) engaged in (or managing) any business or occupation in the incorporated or unincorporated areas of Okeechobee County a Business Tax Receipt. A license is required for each location conducting business and for each person subject to professional classifications.

Q. What if I change the location of my business?
A. A license may be transferred upon application and fee. Prerequisites for the new location must be satisfied (i.e. Zoning, City License, Health Inspection). 

Q. Upon sale of a business is a license transferable to the new owner?
A. Except for individual professional licenses and exempt licenses, a license may be transferred to a new owner upon application and payment of a fee. Any regulatory prerequisites must be met by the new owner. Application for transfer should be within 30 days.

Q. Are there exemptions from Business Tax Receipts?
A. There are a few exemptions and exceptions to the actual issuance of a license, primarily relating to agriculture.

There are Fee Exemptions (license and prerequisites still applicable) for disabled veterans (up to $50); full exemption for 65 years or older ($1,000 less in capital), widows with dependent children, handicapped or invalid. The applicant for the exemption must be conducting the actual business, and not an "absentee owner."

Q. How long does it take to get a license?
A. Most Business Tax Receipts can be issued the same day you come to the office. However, regulated activities may require inspections or additional information, Therefore, some licenses may take longer to meet issuance requirements.