St. Petersburg, FL Business License Guide

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The Ultimate Business License Guide for St. Petersburg, Florida

Last updated: August 2025

This is a practical, step-by-step hub for getting your business legally set up to operate in the City of St. Petersburg and Pinellas County, Florida. It covers city and county business tax receipts, state tax registration, state professional licenses, inspections, realistic timelines, costs, and where to get help.

Before you dive in, know this: in Florida your “business license” usually means a Local Business Tax Receipt (LBT or BTR) from both your county and your city, plus any industry-specific state license and state tax accounts. Expect to deal with multiple offices. The process is doable, but details matter and delays are common when zoning, build-outs, or state boards are involved.

Quick Help (Fastest Next Steps)

  • Register your business with the State of Florida (Sunbiz). File your LLC or corporation and get your document number. Filing fee for an LLC is $125. Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz) – Start a Business (official portal). Source: Florida Division of Corporations, accessed Aug. 2025.
  • Get your EIN (free) from the IRS. It’s required for most businesses, banks, payroll, and 1099s. Fee is $0. IRS – Apply for an EIN Online (official). Source: IRS, accessed Aug. 2025.
  • Register for Florida taxes (sales tax, reemployment tax, etc.) if you sell taxable goods/services, rent commercial space, or have employees. Florida Dept. of Revenue – Tax Registration (official). State sales tax is 6%; Pinellas County discretionary surtax is commonly 1% (most retail total 7%). Always confirm your exact surtax rate by address. Florida DOR – Discretionary Sales Surtax Rates (official). Sources: Florida DOR, accessed Aug. 2025.
  • Apply for your Pinellas County Local Business Tax Receipt (county license). Fees vary by business category and may depend on factors like employees or square footage. Check current amounts and apply online. Pinellas County Tax Collector – Local Business Tax (official). Source: Pinellas County Tax Collector, accessed Aug. 2025.
  • Apply for your City of St. Petersburg Business Tax Receipt (city license). You’ll need zoning clearance and, if applicable, a Certificate of Occupancy. Check current city requirements, fee schedule, and forms. City of St. Petersburg – Business & Permits Portal (official city site; use site search for “Business Tax Receipt”). Source: City of St. Petersburg, accessed Aug. 2025.
  • Check whether your industry needs a Florida state professional license (restaurants, salons, contractors, alcohol, health care, etc.). Florida DBPR – Licensing (official). FDACS – Food Establishments (non-restaurant) (official). Sources: DBPR and FDACS, accessed Aug. 2025.
  • If you will serve food, sell alcohol, or do build-outs: do not sign a long lease or start construction until you talk to zoning, building, fire, and the right state division. It can save months.
  • Free local help: Florida SBDC at Pinellas County Economic Development (no-cost advisors, classes). Florida SBDC at PCED – Get Counseling (official county economic development). Source: PCED, accessed Aug. 2025.

What Counts as a “Business License” in St. Petersburg (and Who Needs It)

Most businesses operating in St. Petersburg need:

  • A Pinellas County Local Business Tax Receipt (county-level)
  • A City of St. Petersburg Business Tax Receipt (city-level)
  • Any required Florida state license (industry-specific)
  • Florida tax registration (sales tax; commercial rent tax if applicable; and reemployment tax if you have employees)
  • Zoning approval and occupancy/fire clearance for your location

Yes, home-based businesses also need a business tax receipt, and you must comply with home-occupation rules. Out-of-city but servicing St. Petersburg clients? If you have a physical presence or regularly conduct business in the city, the city may require a business tax receipt. Always confirm.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re unsure whether your activity triggers a city or county license, contact the Pinellas County Tax Collector’s LBT team via the official page’s contact options: Pinellas County LBT Contact. For city rules, use the city site search (“Business Tax Receipt” and “Zoning”) at City of St. Petersburg and call the listed division directly for clarification.

High-Level Process and Timeline

The order matters. Here’s a practical sequence that avoids common bottlenecks.

Summary Timeline (typical ranges)

Step Action Typical Timeframe Notes
1 Pick structure and name 1–3 days Do a quick name search on Sunbiz and a domain search.
2 File with Sunbiz Same day–1 week Online filings are usually faster. LLC filing fee $125.
3 Get EIN Same day Free online with IRS.
4 State tax registration (DOR) Same day–1 week Online account setup; allow mailing time for notices.
5 Location/zoning check 1–2 weeks Add time if you need a Conditional Use or parking review.
6 Build-out permits & inspections 2–12+ weeks Varies greatly; restaurants and salons often on the longer side.
7 County LBT Same day–1 week After state and local prerequisites are met.
8 City BTR Same day–1 week Issued after zoning/CO/fire are cleared.
9 Sector-specific state license 1–12+ weeks DBPR/FDACS timing depends on completeness and inspections.

Reality check:

  • Plan extra time for build-outs (permits + inspections).
  • Restaurants, alcohol, childcare, and medical-related businesses take longer due to plan reviews and inspections.

Sources for cited fees and agencies: Sunbiz, IRS, Florida DOR, DBPR, FDACS (all official; accessed Aug. 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your timeline slips, pause non-essential spending (e.g., marketing) and focus on the critical path: permits, inspections, and required state approvals. Call the agency directly and ask for a status check and “what’s missing” list. When in doubt, book a no-cost consult with the Florida SBDC at PCED for sequencing help (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

Step 1 — Register Your Business with the State (Sunbiz)

Most businesses form an LLC or corporation with the Florida Division of Corporations (“Sunbiz”).

Key choices:

  • LLC vs Corporation (C or S for tax election). Sole proprietors can operate without forming an entity, but still need tax registration and local business tax receipts.

Costs and deadlines:

  • LLC Articles of Organization: $125 (state filing + registered agent designation). Sunbiz – Start an LLC (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Profit Corporation Articles: typically $70 (filing + registered agent designation). Confirm exact fee structure for your entity type. Sunbiz – Fees & Forms (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Annual Reports due by May 1 every year to keep your entity active. Late fee for most for‑profit entities (including LLCs) is $400 if filed after May 1. Sunbiz – Annual Report (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Fictitious Name (“DBA”) if operating under a name different from your legal entity name: base filing $50. Sunbiz – Fictitious Name Registration (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

Documents you’ll need:

  • Business name and principal address
  • Registered agent name/address (Florida street address required)
  • Owner/manager names and addresses
  • Payment method

Real-world example:

  • A design studio forming “Sunshine Creative LLC” files online, pays $125, gets its document number within a day, then applies for a county and city business tax receipt.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your filing bounces (name conflict or missing info), call Sunbiz or use their contact forms from the official page: Sunbiz – Contact (official; accessed Aug. 2025). If you need legal/tax advice on structure, speak with a Florida-licensed CPA or attorney.

Step 2 — Get Your EIN (IRS)

  • Most entities need an EIN for banking, hiring, and 1099 reporting. Sole proprietors without employees can sometimes use a SSN, but an EIN is still a good idea.
  • Fee: $0. Apply online for fastest processing. IRS – Apply for EIN Online (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 800-829-4933 (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If the IRS online app is down or you lack a SSN/ITIN, file via fax/mail using Form SS-4. IRS – Form SS‑4 (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

Step 3 — Register for Florida Taxes (Dept. of Revenue)

You likely need one or more state tax accounts:

  • Sales & Use Tax (selling taxable goods or certain services)
  • Discretionary sales surtax (county add-on; varies; Pinellas commonly 1%)
  • Reemployment Tax (state unemployment) if you have employees
  • Commercial Rent Tax if you lease nonresidential space (state rate 2.0% effective June 1, 2024; plus county surtax applies)

Where to register:

Key numbers to know:

Documents you’ll need:

  • EIN, legal entity info, NAICS code, business start date, location, details on products/services, employees

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Call Florida DOR Taxpayer Services at 850-488-6800 for account or filing help (official; accessed Aug. 2025). You can also request an in‑person or virtual appointment through their site.

Step 4 — Zoning, Location, and Occupancy (City of St. Petersburg)

Before signing a long lease or doing build-outs, verify that your intended use is allowed at the address.

Actions:

  • Zoning verification for your use (retail, restaurant, office, salon, daycare, manufacturing, etc.)
  • Building permits for any construction, change of use, or significant remodel
  • Fire inspection and life-safety compliance
  • Certificate of Occupancy (CO) or Certificate of Completion (as required)

Where to start:

  • City of St. Petersburg main site (use site search for “Zoning,” “Permits,” “Certificate of Occupancy,” “Business Tax Receipt”): City of St. Petersburg – Official Site (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Online permit portal is typically accessible from the city site (search “permits” or “Citizen Access” on the official site). Confirm current link on the city site to avoid outdated portals.

Typical timeline:

  • Zoning clearance: 1–2+ weeks depending on complexity.
  • Building permit review (no plan review vs. plan review): days to several weeks.
  • Fire inspections: 1–2+ weeks depending on scheduling and corrections.

Real-world example:

  • A coffee shop on Central Ave needed zoning sign-off, grease interceptor review, DBPR restaurant pre‑opening inspection, and a final fire inspection. Total time from lease to opening: 3 months due to plan review and equipment lead times.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re stuck between landlord approvals and city plan review, ask the city for a pre‑application meeting and get a single list of required submittals. If you need help translating inspector comments into a fix, schedule a no‑cost consult via the Florida SBDC at PCED (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

Step 5 — Pinellas County Local Business Tax Receipt (County License)

Most businesses in Pinellas County must obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt from the county.

Apply and pay:

What you’ll need:

  • EIN or SSN (as applicable)
  • State registration (Sunbiz) info
  • Business location address
  • Industry classification details (the fee may depend on type and size)

Fees:

Renewal:

  • Local business tax receipts typically run on a fiscal cycle and must be renewed annually; verify your renewal month and grace period. Check the official page for exact renewal deadline and penalties.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

Step 6 — City of St. Petersburg Business Tax Receipt (City License)

Most businesses physically located or operating in St. Petersburg must obtain a city Business Tax Receipt.

Apply:

Prerequisites:

  • Zoning approval
  • Certificate of Occupancy/Completion (if applicable)
  • Fire inspection clearance (if applicable)

Fees and timing:

  • Fees vary by business type. The city’s BTR is usually issued after required approvals are met. Check the official city BTR page for the current fee schedule and typical issuance times. Check https://www.stpete.org/ for current amounts (search “Business Tax Receipt” for the exact page).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you can’t locate the right form or status, call the number listed on the city’s Business Tax Receipt page or contact the city’s business assistance resource center (“The Greenhouse”) via the city website for a warm handoff to the correct city division. For comprehensive assistance, consult the Florida SBDC at PCED (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

Step 7 — Industry-Specific Licenses (DBPR, FDACS, DOH, ABT, DCF)

Florida licensing is mainly handled by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (FDACS), the Department of Health (DOH) and the Division of Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco (ABT). Some childcare licensing in Pinellas has special local handling.

Here’s a quick matrix.

Licensing Matrix — Who Regulates What (Florida)

Business Type Primary Regulator Key Actions/Links Typical Extras
Restaurants/Food Service DBPR – Division of Hotels & Restaurants DBPR – Hotels & Restaurants (official) Plan review for new/remodeled; pre-opening inspection; city fire inspection
Retail Food (grocery, markets) FDACS – Division of Food Safety FDACS – Food Establishments (official) Sanitation standards; city zoning/CO; possibly scale licenses
Food Trucks/Mobile Food Depending on foods, FDACS or DBPR Start at FDACS link above; DBPR if operating like a mobile food dispensing vehicle Commissary letter often required; local parking permits/rules
Alcohol Sales/Service DBPR – ABT DBPR – Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco (official) Zoning approvals for alcohol use; background checks; quotas for full liquor
Salons/Barbers DBPR – Cosmetology/Barbers’ Boards DBPR – Cosmetology (official) Salon license + individual licenses; sanitation; inspections
Contractors DBPR – Construction Industry Licensing Board DBPR – Construction Industry (official) State certification/registration; permit pull authority; insurance
Professional/Healthcare DOH & professional boards Florida DOH – Licensing & Regulation (official) Background checks; facility licensing as applicable
Child Care DCF or local licensing authority Start here: DCF – Child Care Licensing (official) Pinellas has local licensing arrangements; confirm on DCF site
Charitable Solicitations FDACS FDACS – Solicitation of Contributions (official) Registration required if soliciting contributions

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Use the regulator’s contact center to get a checklist by your business type. DBPR Customer Contact Center: 850-487-1395 (official; accessed Aug. 2025). FDACS consumer line: 1-800-435-7352 (official; accessed Aug. 2025). For health boards, start at DOH’s licensing portal.

Costs & Budgeting: What to Expect

Below are common, real costs you’re likely to face. Many vary by business type.

Core Registrations (State/Federal)

Item Amount Source
LLC Articles of Organization $125 Sunbiz – Start an LLC (official; accessed Aug. 2025)
Profit Corporation Articles Typically $70 Sunbiz – Start a Business (official; accessed Aug. 2025)
Fictitious Name (DBA) $50 Sunbiz – Fictitious Name (official; accessed Aug. 2025)
Annual Report Late Fee (LLC/Corp) $400 (after May 1) Sunbiz – Annual Report (official; accessed Aug. 2025)
IRS EIN $0 IRS – EIN (official; accessed Aug. 2025)

Taxes You’ll Collect/Pay

Tax Amount/Rate Notes & Source
Florida Sales & Use Tax 6% state Florida DOR – Sales Tax (official; accessed Aug. 2025)
Pinellas Discretionary Surtax commonly 1% Confirm address-specific rate. DOR – Surtax Rates (official; accessed Aug. 2025)
Commercial Rent Tax State 2.0% from June 1, 2024 + local surtax Florida DOR – TIPs/Guidance (official; accessed Aug. 2025)
Reemployment Tax Wage base $7,000, new employer rate typically 2.7% Florida DOR – Reemployment (official; accessed Aug. 2025)

Local Business Taxes

Jurisdiction Fee Range Where to Check
Pinellas County LBT Varies by business class, employees, etc. Check current schedule: Pinellas County LBT (official; accessed Aug. 2025). Check https://taxcollect.com/local-business-tax/ for current amounts.
City of St. Petersburg BTR Varies by business type Check the official city BTR page via stpete.org site search (official; accessed Aug. 2025). Check https://www.stpete.org/ for current amounts.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If costs look unclear, contact the issuing agency and ask for a written fee quote or a link to the exact schedule. For planning, build a cushion for inspections, re‑inspections, and permit revisions.

Sector-Specific How-To Guides (with Reality Checks)

Restaurants, Cafes, and Food Service (DBPR – Hotels & Restaurants)

First steps:

  • Confirm zoning allows your use at the address.
  • Get plan review if you’re building or remodeling.
  • Coordinate DBPR, city building, and fire inspections.

Apply:

Documents:

  • Floor plan, equipment list, water/sewer info, seating count, grease interceptor details (if needed), food protection procedures

Timing:

  • Plan review can add 2–8+ weeks, plus scheduling for pre-opening inspections.

Costs:

  • DBPR fees vary by license type and seating; city/county BTR fees also apply. Check DBPR’s fee schedule for your license class. Check DBPR Hotels & Restaurants for current amounts.

Tip:

  • Don’t buy equipment that fails sanitation specs. Submit your plan and spec sheets to DBPR first.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Request a DBPR plan review consult and ask the city building department for a pre‑permit meeting to catch code issues early.

Food Trucks and Mobile Food

First steps:

  • Decide your licensing path (DBPR Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle vs. FDACS) based on menu and equipment.
  • Secure a commissary letter if required.
  • Find lawful operating locations; confirm city and county rules on vending in rights-of-way and private property.

Apply:

Timing:

  • Licensing and inspection: 1–6+ weeks depending on completeness and scheduling.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you don’t get a commissary, partner with a shared kitchen that provides commissary services. Ask FDACS/DBPR for a list of common deficiencies so you can fix them before inspection.

Retail Food (Grocery, Markets, Specialty Foods) – FDACS

First steps:

  • Zoning clearance and CO for your space.
  • Cold storage, thermometers, sanitation plan.

Apply:

Timing:

  • Inspection-based. Expect 1–4+ weeks from complete application to inspection.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Request an FDACS pre‑opening phone consult and a checklist for your store type to reduce repeat inspections.

Salons, Barbers, and Spas – DBPR Boards

First steps:

  • Zoning and CO for salon location.
  • Individual licenses (cosmetology or barbering) plus salon or barbershop license.

Apply:

Timing:

  • Facility license approval and inspection typically 2–6+ weeks; add time for build-outs.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Get a DBPR pre‑inspection checklist; schedule a mock walk-through to double-check sanitation stations, licensure postings, and equipment.

Contractors and Trades

First steps:

  • Confirm state licensure category with DBPR (Certified or Registered contractor).
  • Verify workers’ compensation coverage and permit pulling authority.

Apply:

Local permits:

  • City permits for any work in St. Petersburg; confirm whether your specialty trade requires state licensing or is locally regulated under current law.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your trade was previously locally licensed and you’re unclear on new rules, contact DBPR for current guidance and the city building department for permit eligibility.

Alcohol Licenses (DBPR – ABT)

First steps:

  • Confirm zoning for alcohol use at your address.
  • Decide license type (beer/wine vs. full liquor; on-premise vs. package). Full liquor (4COP) licenses are usually quota-based.

Apply:

Costs:

  • Fees depend on license class and county population. Check DBPR’s ABT fee schedule for exact amounts. Check DBPR ABT for current amounts.

Timing:

  • Background checks, zoning approval, and inspections typically mean 4–12+ weeks.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Consider starting with beer/wine (2COP/2APS) while you pursue quota or change-of-tenant full liquor options.

Childcare and Daycare

First steps:

  • Confirm Pinellas County’s local licensing handling for childcare facilities and ensure the property meets daycare zoning and building code.

Start here:

  • DCF – Child Care Licensing (official; accessed Aug. 2025). Use this page to confirm whether your facility is licensed by DCF or by a local licensing authority in Pinellas County.

Timing:

  • Expect 8–12+ weeks including inspections, background screening, and facility adjustments.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Ask DCF or the local licensing agency for a pre‑opening site review checklist to avoid repeat deficiencies.

Home-Based Businesses in St. Petersburg

  • Florida law protects home-based businesses that comply with local residential character rules (no excessive traffic, noise, or signage). You still need county and city business tax receipts, and state tax registration where applicable.
  • Check the city’s home occupation standards (start at the city site search): City of St. Petersburg (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your activity draws customers or deliveries beyond what’s allowed, consider a small office suite, co‑working, or a light industrial flex space within the proper zoning.

Insurance, Workers’ Comp, and Payroll

  • Workers’ Compensation in Florida: construction businesses typically need coverage with 1 or more employees; non-construction with 4 or more employees; agricultural has different thresholds. Confirm current rules here: Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Payroll: register for reemployment tax (see DOR above), withhold federal payroll taxes, and file state/federal returns on time.
  • General liability and professional liability insurance are often required by landlords and helpful to manage risk.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If premiums seem high, get multiple quotes and ask about payroll-based comp policies. The Florida SBDC can help with cash flow planning.

Signage, Outdoor Seating, and Special Use

  • Sign permits: Required for most permanent exterior signs. Start at the city’s permitting pages via site search (“sign permit”). City of St. Petersburg (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Sidewalk cafés and outdoor seating: May require additional approvals and insurance.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your sign was installed without a permit, stop work and contact the city to fix it. Unauthorized signs can delay your BTR.

Accessibility and ADA

  • Commercial spaces open to the public must meet ADA standards. Federal law applies regardless of local permits.
  • Learn more: ADA.gov – Small Business (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If your build-out exposes ADA items, plan accessibility upgrades now rather than later, which costs more and delays openings.

Renewals, Ongoing Compliance, and Key Deadlines

  • Sunbiz Annual Report due by May 1 each year; late fee $400 for most for‑profit entities. Sunbiz – Annual Report (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • County and City Business Tax Receipts renew annually; watch for renewal notices from the county tax collector and the city. Check your specific renewal due date on your receipts and the official pages: Pinellas County LBT and City of St. Petersburg.
  • Florida Sales & Use Tax returns: monthly, quarterly, or semiannual depending on volume; DOR assigns frequency. Florida DOR – File & Pay (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Reemployment Tax returns (RT-6): typically quarterly. Florida DOR – Reemployment (official; accessed Aug. 2025).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you miss a filing, file and pay ASAP to limit penalties. Ask DOR for a payment plan if needed.

Real-World Examples (St. Petersburg)

  • Boutique fitness studio on MLK Street: The owner filed an LLC (125∗∗),gotanEIN(∗∗125**), got an EIN (**0), registered for sales tax due to retail merch (7% in many Pinellas locations), secured zoning clearance for a fitness use, completed fire inspection (exit lighting upgrades), and obtained county and city business tax receipts. Lead time: ~10 weeks due to build-out.
  • Freelance web developer (home-based): Registered a DBA ($50), obtained county and city business tax receipts (home occupation), and did not need a state professional license. Registered with DOR only when selling taxable software add-ons.
  • Neighborhood wine bar: Secured zoning for on-premise alcohol, obtained a 2COP beer/wine license from DBPR ABT (fee depends on county population), registered for sales tax and commercial rent tax (2.0% state + 1% discretionary surtax in many Pinellas locations), and passed city fire inspection. Opening delayed 6 weeks while waiting for seating plan approval.

Sources for cited amounts: Sunbiz, IRS, Florida DOR, DBPR (official; accessed Aug. 2025). Always confirm address-specific surtax and current ABT fees on DBPR.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping zoning verification before signing a lease. This can cost months and force expensive changes.
  • Starting build-outs without permits. Unpermitted work triggers stop orders, rework, and delays.
  • Assuming the county LBT is enough. St. Petersburg usually also requires a city BTR.
  • Missing the Sunbiz Annual Report due by May 1. The late fee is $400.
  • Not registering for sales tax or commercial rent tax. Florida audits these frequently.
  • Buying equipment that fails DBPR/FDACS sanitation specs.
  • Ignoring accessibility (ADA) upgrades during remodels.
  • Waiting until the end to schedule inspections. Calendars fill up, especially before holidays.
  • Using the wrong NAICS code or license category, leading to a rejected application.
  • Not keeping proof of your Certificate of Occupancy for the city BTR application.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’ve already made one of these mistakes, call the relevant agency, explain the situation, and ask for a corrective path. Many issues are fixable if you act quickly and document corrections.

Inclusivity, Diversity, and Accessibility Resources (Florida + Pinellas)

These programs can reduce barriers and open doors for certifications, training, and contracting.

  • Florida Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD): State certifications for woman-, minority-, and veteran-owned businesses. Benefits include visibility in state purchasing and networking. Florida OSD – Get Certified (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • SBA 8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone certifications: Federal certifications that can help with contracting. Start here: SBA – Federal Contracting Certifications (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Florida SBDC at PCED: No‑cost one-on-one advising, including for minority-, women-, LGBTQ+, veteran-, and immigrant-owned businesses. Florida SBDC at PCED (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Prospera: Business support for Hispanic/Latino entrepreneurs (workshops, consulting). Prospera – Florida (established nonprofit; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Tampa Bay Women’s Business Centre (WBC): Training and counseling for women entrepreneurs in the region. WBC – The Centre for Women (established nonprofit; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Veteran resources: Florida Veterans’ Affairs – Entrepreneurship (official; accessed Aug. 2025) and SBA – Veterans (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • LGBTQ+ business resources: National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) certification. NGLCC – LGBTBE Certification (established national chamber; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Disability-owned business certification: Disability:IN supplier diversity. Disability:IN – Certification (established nonprofit; accessed Aug. 2025).

Language access:

  • Many state agency pages offer Spanish and other language resources or translation tools. If you need documents in another language, ask the agency contact center directly.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re not sure which certification fits, book a no‑cost session with the SBDC. They’ll help you map requirements, timelines, and return on effort.

Local and State Contact Directory (Quick Reference)

Topic Agency Link Phone
Entity filings (LLC, Corp, DBA) Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz) Sunbiz – Start a Business See site contact
EIN IRS IRS – Apply for EIN 800-829-4933
Sales/Use, Reemployment, Commercial Rent Tax Florida Dept. of Revenue DOR – Registration 850-488-6800
County Local Business Tax Pinellas County Tax Collector Pinellas – Local Business Tax See page for office contacts
City Business Tax Receipt, Zoning & Permits City of St. Petersburg City of St. Petersburg – Official Site See department pages
Restaurants/Hotels DBPR – Hotels & Restaurants DBPR – H&R 850-487-1395
Alcohol licensing DBPR – ABT DBPR – ABT 850-487-1395
FDACS Food FDACS – Food Establishments FDACS – Food 1-800-435-7352
Health professionals Florida DOH DOH – Licensing & Regulation See board pages
Free advising Florida SBDC at PCED SBDC – Pinellas See page for contact

All links are official or well-established; accessed Aug. 2025.

Filing Sequence Checklist (Save This)

  • Choose and file your entity on Sunbiz; calendar your Annual Report due May 1.
  • Get your EIN ($0) from the IRS.
  • Open your business bank account.
  • Register with Florida DOR for sales tax, reemployment tax, and (if applicable) commercial rent tax.
  • Confirm zoning and occupancy for your location; don’t sign a lease that blocks your use.
  • If construction or remodel: submit plans and pull permits before work starts.
  • Apply for industry-specific state licenses (DBPR/FDACS/DOH/ABT) as needed.
  • Obtain Pinellas County LBT; then City of St. Petersburg BTR.
  • Schedule and pass fire/health inspections.
  • Set up your filing calendar for renewals and taxes.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re off‑sequence, pause the next step and get a mini “roadmap” from the SBDC or the agency that controls your current blocker (permit, license, inspection).

Funding and Cost Management Tips (Practical)

  • Create a line-item budget for permits, inspections, and re‑inspections. Even two small re‑inspections can add hundreds of dollars. Check city and DBPR fee lists for current amounts.
  • Commercial rent tax is easy to miss. If you lease a storefront, budget 2.0% state commercial rent tax plus the local surtax (often 1% in Pinellas). Confirm with your landlord how tax is handled.
  • If cash is tight before opening, ask inspectors to review the top items that can fail. Fix those first to avoid multiple trips.
  • Consider starting with a soft opening after you have every required approval. Operating without approvals risks fines and shutdowns.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Discuss phased build-outs with your landlord (e.g., open retail side first, add café later). Validate with the city that phasing is allowed for your CO.

Frequently Asked Questions (Florida/St. Petersburg)

  • Do I need both county and city licenses?
    Yes. Most businesses in St. Petersburg need a Pinellas County Local Business Tax Receipt and a City of St. Petersburg Business Tax Receipt. Check the official county page: Pinellas LBT and the city site: St. Petersburg.
  • What’s the Florida sales tax rate in St. Pete?
    Florida state sales tax is 6%, and Pinellas often adds 1% discretionary surtax, making 7% for many retail transactions. Confirm by address: Florida DOR – Surtax Rates (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • How is commercial rent taxed?
    State commercial rent tax is 2.0% effective June 1, 2024, plus any local surtax (often 1% in Pinellas). Source: Florida DOR guidance (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • When is the Sunbiz Annual Report due?
    By May 1 every year. The late fee for most for‑profit entities is $400. Sunbiz – Annual Report (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Do home-based businesses need licenses?
    Yes. You generally need both county and city business tax receipts even if you work from home, and you must follow home occupation rules. Start at City of St. Petersburg (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • I’m only doing pop-ups or markets. What do I need?
    Likely sales tax registration (collect 7% in many Pinellas locations), and depending on your product (e.g., food), a DBPR/FDACS license. The venue may also require proof of your county/city business tax receipts.
  • How long does a restaurant license take?
    Plan for 2–8+ weeks for DBPR plan review and inspection, plus city permits and fire inspection. Times vary with completeness and workload. DBPR – Hotels & Restaurants.
  • Are salon owners required to have both salon and individual licenses?
    Yes. The facility (salon/barbershop) and each professional need licenses. DBPR – Cosmetology (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • What’s the reemployment tax wage base in Florida?
    $7,000 per employee per year; new employer rate typically 2.7%. Florida DOR – Reemployment (official; accessed Aug. 2025).
  • Who can help me if I get stuck?
    The Florida SBDC at PCED offers no‑cost advising. Florida SBDC at PCED (official; accessed Aug. 2025). For licensing specifics, call DBPR at 850-487-1395 or DOR at 850-488-6800.

Reality Checks and Warnings

  • Landlord promises don’t replace permits. If the lease says “restaurant ready,” verify grease interceptor capacity, ADA restrooms, and electrical service.
  • “Quick” permits can still take time during peak seasons. Add 1–2 weeks buffer for reviews.
  • Fees change year to year. Always confirm the current amount on the official page before you pay.
  • Don’t shortcut fire safety. Missing exit signs, emergency lights, or fire extinguishers will delay openings.
  • If you’re changing the use (e.g., retail to assembly), expect higher life-safety requirements.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If an agency denies an application, ask for the specific code section and a written list of corrections. This speeds up your resubmittal.

At-a-Glance: Which Agency for Which Step

Step/Topic Primary Agency Link
Entity Filing Florida Division of Corporations Sunbiz – Start a Business
EIN IRS IRS – Apply for EIN
Sales/Use/Reemployment/Commercial Rent Florida Dept. of Revenue DOR – Registration
County LBT Pinellas County Tax Collector Pinellas – LBT
City BTR, Zoning, Permits City of St. Petersburg St. Pete – Official Site
Restaurants/Food Service DBPR – Hotels & Restaurants DBPR – H&R
Retail Food/FDACS FDACS – Food FDACS – Food Establishments
Alcohol DBPR – ABT DBPR – ABT

What If You’re Expanding or Adding a New Line of Business?

  • Adding on-premise alcohol? Start with zoning and ABT license choice.
  • Moving locations? You may need a new CO, updated inspections, and new county/city tax receipts.
  • Adding prepared foods to a retail store? You might trigger DBPR instead of FDACS licensing, or at least additional equipment requirements.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Before spending money, ask the regulator which license class applies to your new activity and what the “change of use” will require at your new or expanded site.

Plan B: If You Need to Open Faster

  • Start with a simpler license class (e.g., beer/wine only) while pursuing full liquor.
  • Use a commissary or shared kitchen to avoid complex plumbing at your site.
  • Lease a turnkey space that already has approvals for your use.
  • Pilot with pop-ups or markets (with proper sales tax and food licensing) before a full lease.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Consider a phased opening with the city’s sign-off. Get it documented.

Source Index (Citations)

What to Bring When You Apply (Documents Checklist)

  • Sunbiz documents (Articles, document number)
  • EIN confirmation letter (IRS)
  • Photo ID for owner(s)
  • Lease or proof of location (and landlord permission for use/signage)
  • Zoning approval and/or Certificate of Occupancy (as applicable)
  • Floor plan and equipment list (for food service, salons, or build-outs)
  • Proof of insurance (workers’ comp, liability as required)
  • State license approvals (DBPR/FDACS/DOH/ABT) or application receipts

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • If you’re missing one of these, ask the agency if you can submit a conditional approval pending that document. Some steps can be parallel if the agency allows it.

Troubleshooting Delays

  • No response from an agency? Call the listed phone, reference your application/permit number, and ask for current status and missing items.
  • Failed inspection? Ask for the written deficiency list with code references, fix the top‑impact items first, and re‑schedule.
  • Payment issue? Pay online via official portals; keep receipts.
  • Conflicting guidance? Ask for the code section and supervisor review.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

  • Get help from the Florida SBDC or, for technical code issues, a licensed Florida design professional (architect/engineer).

About This Guide

  • Purpose: Give practical, current, Florida-specific steps, with direct links to official sources.
  • Independence: This guide is informational and does not replace advice from licensed professionals.
  • Sources: All official or well-established sources are linked and noted “accessed Aug. 2025.” Fees and rules can change; always confirm on the official site before paying or building.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and may not cover every situation. Laws, fees, deadlines, and processes change. Always verify details with the relevant agency and consult qualified professionals (attorney/CPA/architect/engineer) when needed. The author is not responsible for actions taken based on this guide.