Agriculture, Farming, Ranching and Livestock

Print Checklist
Overview

This industry group comprises businesses primarily engaged in (1) growing oilseed and/or grain crops,(2) producing oilseed and grain seeds, (3) rowing root and tuber crops (except sugar beets and peanuts) or edible plants and/or producing root and tuber or edible plant seeds, (4) growing fruit and/or tree nut crops, (5) growing crops of any kind under cover (e.g., in greenhouses, cold frames, etc.) and/or growing nursery stock and flowers, (6) growing other crops, such as tobacco, cotton, sugarcane, hay, sugar beets, peanuts, agave, herbs and spices, and hay and grass seeds, (7) growing a combination of crops, (8) raising cattle, milking dairy cattle, or feeding cattle for fattening, (9) raising hogs and pigs, (10) breeding, hatching, and raising poultry for meat or egg production, (11) raising sheep, lambs, and goats, or feeding lambs for fattening, (12) raising bees, horses and other equines, rabbits and other fur-bearing animals, and so forth, and producing products, such as honey and other bee products, and (13) alligator farming.

Business types included in this category:
  • Cattle Ranching and Farming

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in raising cattle, milking dairy cattle, or feeding cattle for fattening.

  • Fruit and Tree Nut Farming

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in growing fruit and/or tree nut crops. The crops included in this industry group are generally not grown from seeds and have a perennial life cycle.

  • Greenhouse, Nursery, and Floriculture Production

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in growing crops of any kind under cover and/or growing nursery stock and flowers. “Under cover” is generally defined as greenhouses, cold frames, cloth houses, and lath houses. The crops grown are removed at various stages of maturity and have annual and perennial life cycles. The nursery stock includes short rotation woody crops that have growth cycles of 10 years or less.

  • Hog and Pig Farming

    This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in raising hogs and pigs. These establishments may include farming activities, such as breeding, farrowing, and the raising of weanling pigs, feeder pigs, or market size hogs.

  • Oilseed and Grain Farming

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in (1) growing oilseed and/or grain crops and/or (2) producing oilseed and grain seeds. These crops have an annual life cycle and are typically grown in open fields.

  • Other Animal Production

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in raising animals and insects (except cattle, hogs and pigs, poultry, sheep and goats, aquaculture) for sale or product production. These establishments are primarily engaged in raising one of the following: bees, horses and other equines, rabbits and other fur-bearing animals, and so forth, and producing products, such as honey and other bee products. Establishments primarily engaged in raising a combination of animals with no one animal or family of animals accounting for one-half of the establishment’s agricultural production (i.e., value of animals for market) are included in this industry group.

  • Other Crop Farming

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in (1) growing crops (except oilseed and/or grain; vegetable and/or melon; fruit and tree nut; and greenhouse, nursery, and/or floriculture products). These establishments grow crops, such as tobacco, cotton, sugarcane, hay, sugar beets, peanuts, agave, herbs and spices, and hay and grass seeds; or (2) growing a combination of crops (except a combination of oilseed(s) and grain(s) and a combination of fruit(s) and tree nut(s)).

  • Poultry and Egg Production

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in breeding, hatching, and raising poultry for meat or egg production.

  • Sheep and Goat Farming

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in raising sheep, lambs, and goats, or feeding lambs for fattening.

  • Vegetable and Melon Farming

    This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in growing root and tuber crops (except sugar beets and peanuts) or edible plants and/or producing root and tuber or edible plant seeds. The crops included in this group have an annual growth cycle and are grown in open fields. Climate and cultural practices limit producing areas but often permit the growing of a combination of crops in a year.

General Considerations

Before starting a business, you probably will need to register with the Florida Department of State, the IRS and the Florida Department of Revenue. When you have completed those steps, you may need to apply for a business license from one or more of these Florida agencies:

  • Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – various licenses in this category
  • Department of Citrus – licensed citrus dealer
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission – Alligator farms and processors, game farms

Businesses in this category should check with the Department of Environmental Protection for applicable air, water and waste permits.

Business owners in this category may also wish to explore assistance offered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.

Get Started

The following represents your interactive licensing checklist for this business category. Select the expandable blue bars below for more information on the specific licenses, permits or registrations that may be required to open your business. We have also included a printable version of the following checklist available at the top of this page for your convenience.

Register your business with the Department of State

Department of State

The Florida Department of State’s Division of Corporations serves as the state’s central depository for a number of commercial activities. These activities include a variety of business entity filings, trade and service mark registrations, federal lien recordings, judgment lien filings, uniform commercial code financing statements, fictitious name registrations, notary commissions, and cable and video service franchises.

To file a complaint regarding a business or person licensed by this agency, please see their website.  To obtain this agency’s public records, visit: https://www.dos.myflorida.com/offices/general-counsel/public-records-requests/.

Steps to Opening

Agency Introduction

The Department of State (DOS) is where you register your business. You can search and access filed information for corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, general partnerships, trademarks, fictitious name registrations and liens. Also, electronic filing and certification can be processed via the Department’s website.

  • Business Registration

Visit: https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/start-business/

Apply for your Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is the nation’s tax collection agency and administers the Internal Revenue Code enacted by Congress.

Steps to Opening

Agency Introduction

If you are required to report employment taxes or give tax statements to employees, you need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to send with all items you report to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or Social Security Administration. If you do not intend to hire others, you may skip this step.

  • EIN Online Registration

Visit: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online

Register your business with the Department of Revenue

Department of Revenue

The Florida Department of Revenue administers three programs: general tax administration, property tax oversight and child support. The general tax administration program works with Florida businesses that are required to register for, collect, report and remit the taxes and fees administered by the Department.

The Department also manages the State of Florida’s New Hire Reporting Center. Federal and state laws require employers to report newly hired, re-hired and temporary employees within 20 days of an employee’s start date. This information is used to assist the Department’s child support program with child support orders. The employment information reported through the state’s New Hire Reporting Center is also used to detect and prevent public assistance and reemployment assistance fraud.

For additional information, please visit floridarevenue.com.

To file a complaint regarding a business or person licensed by this agency, please see their website.  To obtain this agency’s public records, visit:https://floridarevenue.com/opengovt/Pages/default.aspx.

 

Steps to Opening

Agency Introduction

A business owner or contractor may need to register for, collect, report and/or remit one or more of the taxes, fees and licenses administered by the Florida Department of Revenue. This is dependent on the structure of a business, the activities of a business, and whether the business hires employees. In addition, businesses must report newly hired, re-hired and temporary employees through the State of Florida’s New Hire Reporting program managed by the Florida Department of Revenue.

Reporting Employment Information

The Department manages the State of Florida’s New Hire Reporting Center. Federal and state laws require employers to report newly hired, re-hired and temporary employees within 20 days of an employee’s start date. The Department’s Child Support program utilizes employment information and employer cooperation to assist with child support order compliance. The reported employment information through the state’s New Hire Reporting Center is also used to detect and prevent public assistance and reemployment fraud.

  • New Hire Reporting Registration
  • Working with the Child Support Program

Visit: https://servicesforemployers.floridarevenue.com/Pages/home.aspx

Business Taxes, Fees and Surcharge

Businesses in this category may be required to register for, collect, report and/or remit one or more of the following taxes and fees.

  • Corporate Income Tax Liability
  • Reemployment Tax Registration
  • Sales and Use Tax Registration
  • Discretionary Sales Surtax (local option county taxes)

Visit: https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/Pages/default.aspx

Apply for a license from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) supports and promotes Florida agriculture, protects the environment, safeguards consumers, and ensures the safety and wholesomeness of food.  FDACS licenses and inspects various businesses and professions in Florida, such as bakeries, milk producers, weights and measurements, pesticide dealers, oyster harvesting, pre-packaged food sales, beekeepers and travel agents, among others. A variety of different businesses may need to coordinate with FDACS to obtain applicable licenses, registrations and/or permits.

To file a complaint regarding a business or person licensed by this agency, please see their website.  To obtain this agency’s public records, visit: https://fdacs.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/.

Steps to Opening

  • Apiary/Beekeeper Certificate of Registration
  • Approved CEM Quarantine Facility 
  • Citrus Fruit Dealer’s Bond
  • Citrus Fruit Dealer’s License
  • Citrus Fruit Registration
  • Feral Swine Dealer Registration 
  • Feral Swine Holding Facility Registration 
  • Food Establishment Permit
  • License for Public Sale of Thoroughbred Horses
  • Livestock Market Registration
  • Marks and Brands Registration
  • Nursery Certificate of Registration
  • Nursery Stock Dealer Certificate of Registration
  • Pesticide Applicator License – Aerial
  • Pesticide Applicator License – Commercial
  • Pesticide Applicator License – Private
  • Pesticide Applicator License – Public
  • Swine Garbage Feeding Permit
  • Tomato Farm Registration
  • Tomato Packer/Repacker Registration
  • Weights and Measures Permit

Visit: https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/

Apply for a citrus fruit dealer's license from the Department of Citrus

Department of Citrus

The Florida Department of Citrus is responsible for regulating and overseeing all citrus-related business for the state. Citrus is defined, with the exception of grove management, as post-harvest oranges, grapefruit, tangerines and specialty fruit.

To file a complaint regarding a business or person licensed by this agency, please see their website.  To obtain this agency’s public records, visit: https://www.floridacitrus.org/grower/about/open-government/.

 

Steps to Opening

FDOC - Legal Department

The Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) provides licensing for citrus fruit dealers as defined in s. 601.03(8), Florida Statutes . This does not include nurseries.

The legal staff has authority to grant conditional dealer licenses; the Florida Citrus Commission, the department’s agency head, gives final approval of all dealer licenses.

  • Licensed Citrus Fruit Dealer

Visit: https://www.floridacitrus.org/grower/forms/

Apply for a license or permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission manages fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.  With more than 575 species of wildlife, 200 native species of freshwater fish, and 500 native species of saltwater fish in their purview, the agency balances their focus with the needs of 19 million residents by providing law enforcement, research, management and outreach.

To file a complaint regarding a business or person licensed by this agency, please see their website.  To obtain this agency’s public records, visit: https://myfwc.com/contact/public-records-requests/.

Steps to Opening

  • Alligator Farming License
  • Alligator Processing Facility Permit 
  • Alligator Processor License
  • Game Farm License

Visit: https://myfwc.com/license/

Explore assistance from the Department of Economic Opportunity (optional)

Department of Commerce

In collaboration with our partners, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) assists the Governor in advancing Florida’s economy by championing the state’s economic development vision and by administering state and federal programs and initiatives to help visitors, citizens, businesses, and communities.

To file a complaint regarding a business or person licensed by this agency, please see their website.  To obtain this agency’s public records, visit: https://floridajobs.org/about-us/who-we-are-and-what-we-do/requests-for-public-records.

Steps to Opening

Agency Introduction

The Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) utilizes public and private sector expertise to attract, retain and grow businesses and create jobs in Florida. It also provides valuable resources for businesses and entrepreneurs; assistance with recruiting workers; and statistical information regarding Florida businesses and employment. Your business may qualify for various state or federal assistance.

  • Assistance Programs

Visit: http://www.floridajobs.org/

Additional Local Government Information

County Business Requirements

Steps to Opening

Explore Federal Licensing Considerations

Federal Business Requirements

In addition to state and local licensing, many business activities are also regulated by federal agencies.  Businesses within this category may also be required to obtain additional federal licenses, permits, registration, etc. depending on your specific business activities.  It is recommended that you consult with a professional (e.g., attorney, CPA, SBA, etc.) to ensure you meet all requirements before starting your business.  The U.S. Small Business Administration is an excellent resource for potential and current business owners seeking assistance navigating federal licensing requirements.  For more information on the Federal Government, please visit www.usa.gov.

In most cases, you will need not need a license to import or export services or goods into or from the US.  However, international transfer of certain goods may require a license, permit or certification.  All items are subject to export control laws and regulations.  For more information, please visit USA.gov’s importing and exporting page.

Steps to Opening

The U.S. Department of Agriculture

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is the federal agency that oversees the American farming industry. USDA duties range from helping farmers with price support subsidies, to inspecting food to ensure the safety of the American public. The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service issues permits for the import, transit and release of regulated animals, animal products, veterinary biologics, plants, plant products, pests, organisms, soil, and genetically engineered organisms including, but not limited to, Commercial Animal Dealers, Exhibitors, Research Facilities, and Transporters.

The USDA licenses various types of businesses and professionals including:

  • Animals and Animal Products
  • Biotechnology
  • Plants, Organisms, and Soil
  • Dog import Permit
  • Commercial Animal Dealers
  • Exhibitors
  • Transporters
  • Research Facilities

Special Consideration: Importing Dogs into the United States for resale, whether through commercial sale of adoption, requires a permit under the Animal Welfare Act.

Visit: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/permits

Disclaimer: The State of Florida operates OpenMyFloridaBusiness.gov as a public service to Florida residents and visitors worldwide. While efforts were made to verify that the content of this website is accurate and comprehensive, it is recommended that you consult with a professional (e.g., attorney, CPA, SBDC, etc.) to ensure you meet all requirements before starting your business. OpenMyFloridaBusiness.gov is not responsible for the content of external websites.