Educational Services

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Alachua County has a lot to offer to new and existing businesses, from highly educated employees to an easily accessible transportation network.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Alachua County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://alachuacounty.us/

• Building Department and Contractor Licensing
  Visit this webpage for application, registration and renewal of building contractor licenses, required to apply for building permits. This webpage also provides links to various building permits

  
  Visit: https://growth-management.alachuacounty.us/Building/Forms

• Business Resources
  The Business Resources section is designed to meet your business needs for information, assistance and support in one of the most dynamic innovation environments in the state of Florida. It is designed as a virtual directory; connecting entrepreneurs and business owners with service providers, support organizations and programs.

  
  Visit: https://alachuacounty.us/Businesses/Pages/Businesses.aspx

• Gainesville Area Chamber/Economic Development Council
  A key goal of the Chamber is to create and maintain an ecosystem that fosters economic growth and opportunity. The Chamber does this by creating initiatives and forging partnerships focused on advocacy for a stronger business climate. The Chamber represents the interests of the business community on city, county, regional and state levels.

  
  Visit: https://gainesvillechamber.com/economic-development/

• Growth Management
  The Alachua County Growth Management Department implements the community’s vision of quality of life and a sustainable community that promotes economic opportunity, protection of natural resources, and social equity in the interest of the health, safety and welfare of the public. This is carried out through the County’s comprehensive plan, land development regulations, development review and the application of codes governing safe building construction, and related programs to expand availability of safe, sanitary and affordable housing, and economic development initiatives.

  
  Visit this webpage for links to the following county resources:

  • Building Department,
  • Code Enforcement,
  • Comprehensive Plan,
  • Development Plans and Plats,
  • Development Services,
  • GIS Services, and
  • Zoning Administration and Land Development Code (LDC)

  
  Visit: https://growth-management.alachuacounty.us/

• Home Based Business Permits
  This permit provides for the lawful use of a residence in conjunction with certain home based businesses as provided in the Alachua County Unified Land Development Code. Businesses require the approval of the County Zoning Administrator and require a two-year renewal.

  
  Visit: https://growth-management.alachuacounty.us/Business/HomeBased

• Tobacco 21
  Visit this webpage for requirements and regulations pertaining to the sale of tobacco products in Alachua County. This activity require registration with County Growth Management.

  
  Visit: https://library.municode.com/fl/alachua_county/ordinances/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=935517

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.acpafl.org/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as business tax receipts (formerly known as occupational licenses), taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.alachuacollector.com/

• City Websites in Alachua

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, formerly called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population over 100,000.

  • Alachua - https://www.cityofalachua.com/
  • Archer - https://www.cityofarcher.com/
  • Gainesville - https://www.cityofgainesville.org/
  • Hawthorne - https://www.cityofhawthorne.net/
  • High Springs - https://highsprings.us/
  • Lacrosse - http://townoflacrosse.net/
  • Micanopy - https://micanopytown.com/
  • Newberry - https://www.newberryfl.gov/
  • Waldo - https://waldo-fl.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Widely recognized for its exceptional quality of life, Baker County is a diverse and rich community, filled with an abundance of natural beauty, bountiful in resources and a strong, capable spirit. Home to a culture of good neighbors and strong faith, Baker County blends its values with innovation, agriculture and industry and with its close proximity to transportation hubs and the First Coast of Jacksonville, it makes living and working here appealing to industry, visitors and residents alike.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Baker County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: http://www.bakercountyfl.org/

• Chamber of Commerce
  We are always seeking opportunities to promote Baker County as a great place for business and industry. If it's a large business with hundreds of employees or a small business with only a few, we are here to help. From finding the right location to working with government agencies for approvals, the Chamber staff can help.

  
  Visit: https://www.bakerchamberfl.com/

• Community Development
  The mission of the Community Development Department is to provide fair and equitable administration and enforcement of state and county building codes, as well as the County's Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations as approved by the Board of County Commissioners; AND to do so in a manner that is courteous, respectful, and expedient for the citizens and property owners of Baker County.

  
  Visit: http://www.bakercountyfl.org/communitydevelopment.php

• Economic Development
  Baker County is one of Florida's First Coast counties located in Northeast Florida, only a short distance from the Jacksonville beaches on the Atlantic Ocean. The county borders the state of Georgia, is 140 miles from the Florida Capital in Tallahassee, and 45 miles from the University of Florida in Gainesville. There are 585 square miles in Baker County. The projected population is over 30,000 within five years. Macclenny, the county seat with a population of 5,000, is expected to keep up with the county projection.

  
  Baker County is growing rapidly due to its prime location and the availability of five interchanges on Interstate 10, which crosses the county from east to west. The climate in Northeast Florida is mild with plenty of sunshine. Baker County has a mean temperature of 69 degrees F. and a distinctive change in seasons. One of Baker County's more unique advantages is small town atmosphere with big city convenience. All of the cultural, educational, recreational, and professional opportunities of a large metropolitan area are only twenty minutes away in Jacksonville.

  
  Visit: http://choosebakercountyfl.com/

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Occupational Licenses
  Local occupational licenses 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.

  
  Visit: https://www.bakertaxcollector.com/Services/OccupationalLicense

  Notes/Special Considerations

  In order to obtain information on occupational licenses in Baker County, please contact or visit the Baker County Tax Collector’s office. To obtain information on zoning, please visit or contact the Baker County Building and Zoning department. To obtain requirements for a business located within a municipality, please contact or visit the City of Macclenny and the Baker County Tax Collector’s Office.

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: http://bakerpa.com/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.bakertaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Baker

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Glen St. Mary - https://glenstmary.govoffice.com/
  • Macclenny - http://www.cityofmacclenny.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Best known for having the “world’s most beautiful beaches”, Bay County is emerging as Florida’s next economic engine. The area is focused on aerospace, technology, manufacturing, distribution/logistics, retail and, of course, tourism development.

Bay County is located in the heart of the Florida Panhandle and at the center of the southeast U.S. Gulf Coast. This growing area is also surrounded by seven military bases that stretch across northwest Florida and southeast Alabama. This stable military presence provides a strong defense and aerospace supplier sector that further enhances the economy. In addition, Bay County is home to one of the nation’s newest international airports centered in a commercial growth area just north of Panama City Beach. With a 10,000 foot runway and available sites adjacent, Bay County offers a clean canvas to construct any type aviation project.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Bay County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.baycountyfl.gov/

• Builders Services
  For permitting within the city limits of Panama City, prior approval from Panama City Planning and Zoning Department is required.

  
  Visit: https://www.baycountyfl.gov/154/Builders-Services

• Code Enforcement
  The Code Enforcement Division enforces Bay County Codes and Land Development Regulations for the unincorporated areas of Bay County.

  
  Visit: https://www.baycountyfl.gov/162/Code-Enforcement

• Contractor Registration
  Florida licensed contractors only can perform work in Bay County. Visit this webpage for information about registering in Bay County.

  
  Visit: https://www.baycountyfl.gov/157/Contractor-Licensing

• Economic Development
  The Bay Economic Development Alliance (EDA) is your source for fast, accurate data for your location search with the knowledge, expertise and hands-on service to match. The EDA’s team of professionals is dedicated to matching your company’s or client’s needs with the assets in our vibrant business community.

  
  Visit: https://www.bayeda.com/default.aspx

• Planning & Zoning
  Effect an orderly and efficient growth pattern that promotes economic development and enhances the environment, quality of life, and aesthetics. The Planning and Zoning Division reviews all developments within unincorporated Bay County (excluding single family homes) for consistency with the Bay County Land Development Regulations.

  
  Visit: https://www.baycountyfl.gov/276/Planning-Zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The property appraiser is responsible for identifying, locating, and fairly valuing all property, both real and personal, within the county for tax purposes. Also, perform property searches, download forms and view maps.

  
  Visit: https://www.baypa.net/index.html

• Tax Collector
  Florida Tax Collectors are independent constitutional officers elected every four years in the Presidential election year. The Bay County Tax Collector’s office collects and distributes local property taxes. We also collect motor vehicle, vessel and mobile home fees, conduct road tests and issue registrations, titles and driver licenses. The dollars we collect help support schools, parks, roads, libraries, waterways, and transit systems.

  
  Visit: https://www.baytaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Bay

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Callaway - https://www.cityofcallaway.com/
  • Lynn Haven - https://www.cityoflynnhaven.com/
  • Mexico Beach - http://www.mexicobeachgov.com/
  • Panama City - https://www.pcgov.org/
  • Panama City Beach - https://wwws.pcbgov.com/home
  • Parker - http://www.cityofparker.com/
  • Springfield - https://www.springfieldfl.net/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Let us show you how a Bradford County location can benefit your business! Our team is here to provide customized information and assistance to help you throughout your company’s expansion or relocation planning process. Bradford County, a Free Trade Zone and Rural Opportunity Zone designated county, has one of the lowest tax burdens in the U.S. That’s a big reason why more companies are looking here

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Bradford County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.bradfordcountyfl.gov/

• Permit Applications, Building and Zoning
  Permit Applications, Building, Zoning, and Fire Prevention Info can be found by visiting our webpage. All files that are available here for download are in standard formats. There are a few ways to get your permit application to us. Email (five pages or less), Mail, Fax or bring it in!

  
  Visit: https://www.bradfordcountyfl.gov/building_zoning

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  The Bradford County Property Appraiser's primary responsibility is to insure fair and impartial appraisals for all the property owners of Bradford County. It is important that our citizens be well informed about the work we do. With that in mind, we have developed this site to help you learn more about the Property Appraiser's office and its functions and to provide information that will be helpful to you as a citizen of Bradford County. Several pages on this site contain information that will be of interest to you as a taxpayer.

  
  Visit: http://www.bradfordappraiser.com/

• Tax Collector
  The Tax Collector is responsible for the collection of ad valorem taxes and other taxes set at the local level, including those by special levying districts, state agencies, and county commissions. The Tax Collector also acts as an agent of several state departments, including the Department of Revenue, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the Fresh Water Fish Commission.

  
  Visit: https://www.bradfordtaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Bradford

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Brooker - http://townofbrooker.com/
  • Hampton - https://www.hamptonfl.com/
  • Lawtey - no website listed
  • Starke - https://www.cityofstarke.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

At the center of the largest metropolitan statistical area in the Southeast, Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County has everything a business needs to succeed. Whether you're looking for the best and brightest employees, a location with easy access to major international markets, world-class educational opportunities for your employees, business friendly government, or an outstanding lifestyle second to none, Greater Fort Lauderdale should be at the top of your list for your next relocation or expansion project.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Broward County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.broward.org

• Contractor License Verification
  A verified contractor license is only valid in unincorporated Broward County or in areas where the Go SOLAR Online Permitting System is used to pull a permit. If you are planning to perform work within an incorporated area, please check with the city where you plan to pull the permit.?

  
  If you are a State Contractor who plans to perform work within areas that Broward County Building Code Services (Building Permitting) has jurisdiction, you must submit the Florida Contractor License Verification form with supporting documentation, uniform building permit application, and construction plans to our Building Permitting section.

  
  Visit: https://www.broward.org/Building/Contractors/Pages/StateContractorRegistration.aspx

• Doing Business
  Links to useful resources for starting a business in Broward county, including licenses, permits and regulations. Also includes links to Broward County agencies and small business services to help get your business going.

  
  Visit: https://www.broward.org/Business/Pages/Default.aspx

• Planning and Development
  Providing planning services that promote a sustainable built environment for Broward County residents. Reviewing and regulating impacts of development to promote sustainable urban growth for residents and businesses. Providing enterprise-wide GIS services that support innovation and efficiency throughout Broward County. Promoting safety and compliance through zoning regulations for a better community in the BMSD. Also includes links to Broward County Land Use and Comprehensive Plans.

  
  Visit: https://www.broward.org/Planning/Pages/Default.aspx

• Property Appraiser
  The property appraiser is responsible for identifying, locating, and fairly valuing all property, both real and personal, within the county for tax purposes. Also, perform property searches, download forms and view maps.

  
  Visit: https://www.bcpa.net/

• Taxes and Fees
  Records, Taxes and Treasury Division is responsible for the collection of ad valorem taxes and other taxes set at the local level, including those by special levying districts, state agencies and County Commission. This Division also acts as an agent of several state departments, including the Department of Revenue, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

  
  Visit: https://www.broward.org/RecordsTaxesTreasury/TaxesFees/Pages/Default.aspx

• City Websites in Broward

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population of over 100,000.

  • Coconut Creek - https://www.coconutcreek.net/
  • Cooper City - https://www.coopercityfl.org/
  • Coral Springs - https://www.coralsprings.org/
  • Dania Beach - https://daniabeachfl.gov/
  • Davie - https://www.davie-fl.gov/
  • Deerfield Beach - https://www.deerfield-beach.com/
  • Fort Lauderdale - https://www.fortlauderdale.gov/
  • Hallandale Beach -https://www.cohb.org/
  • Hillsboro Beach -https://www.townofhillsborobeach.com/
  • Hollywood -https://www.hollywoodfl.org/
  • Lauderdale Lakes -https://www.lauderdalelakes.org/
  • Lauderdale-by-the-Sea -https://www.lauderdalebythesea-fl.gov/
  • Lauderhill -https://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/
  • Lazy Lake -https://lazylakefl.us/
  • Lighthouse Point -https://www.lighthousepoint.com/
  • Margate - https://www.margatefl.com/
  • Miramar - https://www.miramarfl.gov/
  • North Lauderdale - https://www.nlauderdale.org/
  • Oakland Park - https://oaklandparkfl.gov/
  • Parkland - https://www.cityofparkland.org/
  • Pembroke Park - https://www.tppfl.gov/
  • Pembroke Pines - https://www.ppines.com/
  • Plantation - https://www.plantation.org/
  • Pompano Beach - https://pompanobeachfl.gov/
  • Sea Ranch Lakes - no website listed
  • Southwest Ranches - https://www.southwestranches.org/
  • Sunrise - https://www.sunrisefl.gov/
  • Tamarac - https://www.tamarac.org/
  • West Park - http://www.cityofwestpark.org/
  • Weston - https://www.westonfl.org/
  • Wilton Manors - https://www.wiltonmanors.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

The Calhoun County Board of Commissioners, in partnership with the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce, is actively encouraging economic development projects that would strengthen the County's economy and provide employment for its workforce. Together, we stand ready and available to assist in any way necessary throughout the site selection process.

In Calhoun County you will find friendly, productive people with "down-home" southern charm, sparkling rivers teeming with life, and a community that will welcome you with open arms. We look forward to working with you on developing a most successful project for the Northwest Florida region.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Calhoun County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://calhouncountygov.com/

• Departments
  Includes links and contact information for the Road Department, Emergency Management, Building Department and other local government agencies.

  
  Visit: https://calhouncountygov.com/departments/

• Industrial Development Authority
  This authority's purpose is to preserve and maintain Calhoun County’s agricultural based economy and for development and financing of industry and other projects within Calhoun County.

  
  Visit: https://calhouncountygov.com/departments/industrial-development-authority/

• Opportunity Florida
  Chances are, you already face enough day to day challenges running your business. But here in northwest Florida, there's an exciting champion for business...Opportunity Florida! Opportunity Florida is an aggressive economic development organization committed to growing the regional economy, and we can be a valuable benefit in helping your business succeed.

  
  As a ten county regional economic development alliance, Opportunity Florida is focused on strengthening the existing businesses within Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, North Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties. We strive to provide the connectivity, resources, knowledge and leverage to help make things happen for your business. In short, our goal is to create "opportunities" for our regional businesses and workers.

  
  Visit: http://www.opportunityflorida.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://calhounpa.net/#

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.bcpao.us/

• City Websites in Calhoun

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Blountstown - https://blountstownfl.govoffice3.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Charlotte County's business climate is strong and vigorous, meeting the needs of one of the fastest growing areas in the county. Its no secret that the county has the finest "quality of life" as evidenced by the repeated recognition in MONEY and other national magazines.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Charlotte County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov

• Building Construction Services
  The Building Construction Division is one of three divisions of the Community Development Department responsible for plan review, building permits and inspections, building code compliance, and contractor licensing compliance relative to all building trades.

  
  Visit: https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov/departments/community-development/building-construction/index.stml

• Business (Working)
  The working business page provides links to information for new and existing businesses, building, construction and development.

  
  Visit: https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov/business/

• Business Assistance Guide
  A reference guide for expanding, relocating, and start-up companies in Charlotte County.

  
  Visit: https://cleared4takeoff.com/files/documents/BAG.pdf

• Permitting and Licensing
  The purpose of permits is to ensure that changes or additions to a building or structure minimally meet the Florida Building Code and the Charlotte County Code of Laws & Ordinances. Charlotte County requires that for any person who engages in the business or acts in the capacity of a contractor or advertises as available to participate in the business or work in the capacity of a contractor, must obtain a Certificate of Competency.

  
  Visit: https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov/departments/community-development/building-construction/permits/

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning & Zoning Division is one of three divisions of the Community Development Department and is responsible for comprehensive planning. code compliance. impact fees, site plan review and more.

  
  Visit: https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov/departments/community-development/planning-zoning/

• Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance
  The goal of Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance is to draw business development to the five counties comprising Southwest Florida, including Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades County. We want to be a marketing engine for Southwest Florida to promote businesses growth to the region. The Alliance serves as a non-parochial economic development coordinator to site selectors, real estate consultants and targeted companies, working in collaboration with the local economic development organizations.

  
  Visit: https://swfleda.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The mission of the Charlotte County Property Appraiser’s office is to produce an accurate and equitable assessment roll and increase public knowledge and awareness of the assessment process. We are committed to guiding Charlotte County residents through the process of qualifying, applying and maintaining property tax exemption benefits. We strive to earn the highest trust of all citizens and welcome every opportunity to serve the people of Charlotte County

  
  Visit: https://www.ccappraiser.com/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collector's Office informs the public of tax obligations and available services, collects authorized taxes and fees from people and businesses in a fair and professional manner, and efficiently distributes the proceeds in accordance with law to the taxing authorities.

  
  Visit: https://taxcollector.charlottecountyfl.gov/

• City Websites in Charlotte

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Punta Gorda - https://www.ci.punta-gorda.fl.us/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Welcome to Citrus County. If you've ever wanted to swim with a manatee, relax in front of a gorgeous sunset, or reel in the "big one" on one of our scenic rivers... then you've come to the right place!

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Citrus County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.citrusbocc.com/

• Contractor Licensing
  The Contractor Licensing Department provides assistance to contractors who want to register and work in Citrus County. Our department enforces Contractor compliance with State of Florida Statutes and County regulations. All contractors who work in Citrus County are required to be licensed and insured.

  
  Visit: https://www.citrusbocc.com/departments/growth_management/building_division/contractor_licensing/index.php

• Code Compliance
  The Code Compliance Division is responsible for ensuring that people comply with County Ordinances and the Land Development Code. The primary goal for this section is "compliance." This is achieved by helping people understand the property laws and codes, and why it is best for everyone in the county if people do their best to meet these requirements.

  
  Visit: https://www.citrusbocc.com/departments/growth_management/code_compliance/index.php

• Doing Business
  If you will be starting a business in Citrus County, there are some requirements you may have to meet.

  
  Visit: https://www.choosecitrus.com/

• Growth Management
  The Department of Growth Management is comprised of the Divisions of Building, Code Compliance and Land Development. The various Divisions implement programs and projects that guide the growth and development of the County including, but not limited to, plans review, permitting, inspections, code enforcement, land use planning, environmental sciences, and historic preservation.

  
  Visit: https://www.citrusbocc.com/departments/growth_management/index.php

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  Our mission is to provide fair and equitable tax assessments every year based upon the market in accordance with the Florida Constitution, law and requirements, while delivering efficient and courteous service to the Citizens of Citrus County.

  
  Visit: https://www.citruspa.org/_DNN/

• Tax Collector
  We demonstrate “Service Excellence” through our organizational values.

  
  Visit: http://www.citrustc.us/

• City Websites in Citrus

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Crystal River - https://www.crystalriverfl.org/
  • Inverness - https://www.inverness-fl.gov/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Clay County is a haven for those who love nature and the outdoors and is the home of some of the region’s best golf courses, public parks and walking & bicycling trails. Add the enjoyment of boating, fishing, canoeing or kayaking on our forty-six square miles of lakes and rivers and you can see why we feel Clay County is a pretty special place!

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Clay County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.claycountygov.com/home

• Business and Economy
  The Clay County Board of County Commission partnerships with the Clay County Chamber of Commerce, the Clay County Development Authority and Choose Clay, serves as a catalyst for government/business collaboration to promote and market Clay County as a highly competitive location for attracting and retaining diversified businesses.

  
  Visit: https://www.claycountygov.com/government/mission-vision-and-values

• Contractor Licensing
  Visit this webpage for information about performing work as a contractor in Clay County.

  
  Visit: https://www.claycountygov.com/government/building/contractor-licensing

• Code Enforcement
  The Code Enforcement Division is to ensure and enhance the quality of life of county residents by requiring owners of property in noncompliance with county codes, to come into compliance. The Code Enforcement Division is responsible for ensuring compliance with those ordinances and portions of the Clay County Code dealing with non-criminal matters such as public nuisances, zoning violations, solid waste disposal violations, junk vehicle ordinance, sign ordinance and other Land Development Regulations. The Code Enforcement Division does not regulate or enforce homeowner’s association deed restrictions or covenants and restrictions.

  
  Visit: https://www.claycountygov.com/government/code-enforcement

• Permitting
  The Clay County Building Division's mission is to serve customers with professionalism and efficiency through licensing, permitting and inspections to ensure the health, safety and welfare of our community.

  
  Visit: https://www.claycountygov.com/business/online-services

• Planning and Zoning
  The Zoning Section of the Division focuses upon the administration of current planning functions by implementing various codes and applications for Clay County. The primary code for which the Zoning Section takes lead responsibility is the Clay County Land Development Code (LDC). The Zoning Section is also central intake for proposed residential and commercial projects.

  
  Visit: https://www.claycountygov.com/government/planning-and-zoning

• Property Appraiser
  It is the commitment of this office to execute the duties and responsibilities of the Office of the Property Appraiser in a fair and equitable manner and to provide accurate information with courteous, professional service.

  
  Visit: https://ccpao.com/

• Tax Collector
  Our goal is to provide the citizens and taxpayers of Clay County with efficient, cost-effective tax services. Premier customer service for our taxpayers will always be our number one priority.

  
  Visit: https://www.claycountytax.com/

• City Websites in Clay

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Green Cove Springs - https://www.greencovesprings.com/
  • Keystone Heights - https://www.keystoneheights.us/
  • Orange Park - https://www.townoforangepark.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Businesses that start here often prosper. There's a high level of collaboration within the community — private business, non-profits and government — as well as a common purpose: maintaining the enviable lifestyle residents here enjoy.

Away from the crowds and stress of bigger cities, Naples and Collier County offer deep resources for everything from start-up business loans and workforce training to accelerators that can jump-start a business, allow it to expand or move here from a foreign country or out of state. If you're looking for a place to establish and grow your business, consider Collier County.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Collier County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/

• Building Plan Review and Inspection
  We are dedicated to ensuring the building requirements of the State of Florida and Collier County are fully met by providing information and guidance throughout the permitting process. Each plans reviewer and inspector is expected to provide professional, consistent, and friendly service while working to foster an environment that understands the needs of our citizens, and works for full compliance of the governing codes.

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-a-e/building-review

• Business & Economic Development
  Why just vacation in Naples? Make Collier County your business' headquarters!

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-a-e/business-economic-development

• Contractor Licensing
  Pursuant to Florida State Statute and the Collier County Ordinance, any person, firm, partnership, corporation or other legal entity who engages in any construction contracting business, or advertises or represents himself/herself as such, must have a county contractor license/certificate of competency or be state-certified contractor.

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-f-r/operations-regulatory-management/contractor-licensing/

• Code Enforcement
  The Code Enforcement Division enforces numerous County Codes and Ordinances of Law in Collier County. The members of the Division are dedicated to addressing health, safety, and welfare issues. The Division contributes to stabilizing property values and preventing blight in our community.

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-a-e/code-enforcement

• Doing Business
  Visit this website for more information.

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/doing-business

• Planning
  The Community Planning Section is responsible for the study and update of several Collier County area land use plans.

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-s-z/zoning-division/community-planning-section

• Zoning
  The Zoning Division takes pride in providing supportive information and timely reviews to assist property owners and applicants through the County's planning and permitting processes as we plan for and ensure that Collier County's natural and built environments adhere to the community's vision as expressed in our Land Development Code, Growth Management Plan and other planning documents.

  
  Visit: https://www.colliercountyfl.gov/your-government/divisions-s-z/zoning-division

• Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance
  The goal of Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance is to draw business development to the five counties comprising Southwest Florida, including Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades County. We want to be a marketing engine for Southwest Florida to promote businesses growth to the region. The Alliance serves as a non-parochial economic development coordinator to site selectors, real estate consultants and targeted companies, working in collaboration with the local economic development organizations.

  
  Visit: https://swfleda.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The property appraiser is responsible for identifying, locating, and fairly valuing all property, both real and personal, within the county for tax purposes. Also, perform property searches, download forms and view maps.

  
  Visit: https://www.collierappraiser.com

• Tax Collector
  The Tax Collector is responsible for the collection of ad valorem taxes and other taxes set at the local level, including those by special levying districts, state agencies, and county commissions. The Tax Collector also acts as an agent of several state departments, including the Department of Revenue, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the Fresh Water Fish Commission.

  Visit: https://colliertaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Collier

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Everglades City - https://www.cityofeverglades.org/
  • Marco Island - https://www.cityofmarcoisland.com/
  • Naples - https://www.naplesgov.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Located in north central Florida, Columbia County is ready to welcome your business with plenty of available space and an extraordinary network of federal and interstate highways and railroads that offer unparalleled logistical options for businesses of all kinds.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Columbia County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.columbiacountyfla.com

• Building and Zoning
  Planning and Zoning provides various services to the County which entails providing technical, professional and administrative support to various boards, Board of Adjustment, Planning and Zoning Board, Board of County Commissioners and the general public. This department implements and enforces the Columbia County Land Development Regulations, monitors and updates the County's Comprehensive Plan.

  
  Visit: https://www.columbiacountyfla.com/BuildingandZoning.asp

• Economic Development
  The state of Florida is highly integrated with the global economy – it is both a global economic hub and a growing market itself. Columbia County, Florida is a vibrant part of this economy built on an extraordinary network of federal and interstate highways and railroads that connect businesses here to millions of consumers in local and regional markets and throughout the world from deep water ports on the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

  
  Visit: https://www.edcolumbiacountyfl.com/

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: http://columbia.floridapa.com/

• Tax Collector
  The Tax Collector’s office offers you “one-stop shopping” for your tag renewals, title work, driver licenses, property taxes, business tax receipts, concealed weapon permits, and hunting/fishing privileges. The staff of the Tax Collector’s Office strives to serve you promptly and accurately, with the utmost courtesy and in a professional manner, using the most cost effective methods possible. It is an honor and privilege to serve you at your Tax Collector Office.

  
  Visit: https://www.columbiataxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Columbia

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Fort White - https://fortwhitefl.com/
  • Lake City - https://www.lcfla.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

If you are looking for a business friendly environment without the stress of the urban congestion, DeSoto County, Florida is the place for you. In DeSoto County, leaders in the public and private sectors are determined to see the county continue to prosper. By fostering economic growth and developing programs that help businesses and entire business sectors achieve success we strengthen our county. Our work at the Economic Development Office helps create jobs and positions DeSoto County for future growth while improving the quality of life. We make DeSoto County stronger.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Desoto County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://desotobocc.com/

• Contractor Registration
  Visit this webpage for information and applications to register as a certified contractor in DeSoto County.

  
  Visit: https://desotobocc.com/department/building/contractor-registration-information

• Code Enforcement
  Code Enforcement is that branch of the local governing body responsible for the enforcement of that body’s Civil Codes and Ordinances. Codes and Ordinances have been adopted over the years to protect the health, safety and welfare of all residents and to establish the standards that insure a positive effect on property value, community appearance and neighborhood pride.

  
  Visit: https://desotobocc.com/departments/code_enforcement

• Economic Development
  If you are looking for a business friendly environment without the stress of the urban congestion, Desoto County, Florida is the place for you. In Desoto County, leaders in the public and private sectors are determined to see the county continue to prosper. By fostering economic growth and developing programs that help businesses and entire business sectors achieve success we strengthen our county. Our work at the Economic Development Office helps create jobs and positions Desoto County for future growth while improving the quality of life. We make Desoto County stronger.

  
  Visit: https://www.teamdesoto.com/

• Permits
  It is the mission at the DeSoto County Building Department to promote life safety, health and welfare of the county’s residents and visitors by ensuring that construction projects comply with the minimum intent of the codes, and the use of all buildings and structures provide for safety within DeSoto County. We are responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Florida Building Code and the National Electrical Code.

  
  Visit: https://desotobocc.com/departments/building/permit-applications

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning and Zoning Department is responsible for monitoring compliance with and administering the County's Comprehensive Plan in accordance with Florida Statutes and Florida Administrative Code. Planning and Zoning ensures that adequate infrastructure and basic services are available to support new development and assists customers in complying with the County's Land Development Regulations, Comprehensive Plan, and related ordinances through a managed review process.

  
  Visit: https://desotobocc.com/departments/planning_zoning/planning-and-zoning-home-page

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser of DeSoto County, Florida is charged with placing a fair and equitable market value on every parcel of property both real estate and tangible in our county. Many people believe the Property Appraiser determines the amount of taxes a property owner will pay but this is not the case. The job of property appraiser is to value property for tax purposes; the taxing authorities (Board of County Commissioners, School Board, City Council, Water Management) set the tax rate for all property and therefore the amount of taxes to be assessed.

  
  Visit: http://www.desotopa.com/

• Tax Collector
  It is the goal of Tax Collector to provide the citizens of DeSoto County with prompt, personalized, and friendly service. The Tax Collector's office processes taxes, tags, vessel registrations, hunting & fishing and driver licenses. Efficiency is essential in allowing us to provide you with supreme customer service and maintain fiscal accountability.

  Visit: https://www.desotocountytaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Desoto

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Arcadia - https://www.arcadia-fl.gov/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

For decades, Dixie has been known as one of Florida’s finest hunting territories for white-tail deer, turkey and wild hog thanks to private hunt clubs which foster wild game on thousands of acres of wilderness, state-managed wildlife areas where wildlife species are encouraged, and federal wildlife refuges which offer high quality hunting on a quota basis.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Dixie County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://dixiecounty.us/

• Building and Zoning
  Dixie's Community Development Department encompasses all areas of the Building, Planning and Zoning process. Our Office Staff is available Monday through Friday to assist you with any questions, concerns or documentation that you may need. We also offer online step by step instructions, forms, and application packets that you will need when building or developing in Dixie County.

  
  Visit: https://building.dixie.fl.gov/

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  Dixie County's Property Appraiser is primarily responsible for locating, identifying, and valuing all property within the county for ad valorem tax purposes. He is also responsible for administering exemptions, mapping all parcels and classifying agricultural lands. Being custodian of certain county records, he must maintain property record cards, subdivision plats, ownership maps, sales data records and prior tax rolls. From these records, one can access our files, determine building size, a description of its components, and property characteristics.

  
  Visit: https://www.qpublic.net/dixie/

• Tax Collector
  The Office of Tax Collector is authorized by Florida's Constitution, as a separate entity from other County Departments or Agencies. The Tax Collector is elected by the Citizens of Dixie County and is privileged to serve four year terms. The Tax Collector is an agent for various state and local government agencies for the collection of revenue and public funding. It is the responsibility of the Tax Collector to invest these revenues and funds, pending their timely distribution, to various state, local agencies, and taxing authorities.

  
  Visit: http://dixiecountytaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Dixie County

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Cross City - no website listed
  • Horseshow Beach - http://www.townofhorseshoebeachfl.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

The Jacksonville region: unlimited opportunities, fueled by possibilities. You shouldn’t have to choose between living near a beach and landing your dream job; the great outdoors or an exciting nightlife; a fast-paced environment or laidback Southern hospitality. In JAX, you get it all. Jacksonville’s flourishing arts scene, entertaining events, diverse neighborhoods, energetic downtowns, award-winning schools and abundant water access make it the #2 most up-and-coming city in America, according to TIME.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Duval County/Jacksonville Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.coj.net/welcome.aspx

• Business
  Visit this website for a listing of resources for starting or expanding a business in Duval County.

  
  Visit: https://www.coj.net/categories/business.aspx

• Municipal Code Enforcement
  The Municipal Code Compliance Division enforces property maintenance, safety, and zoning codes, which affect the quality of life in Jacksonville. These laws address property nuisance, unsafe structures, residential/commercial minimum building standards, zoning, and (private property) junk vehicle violations.

  
  Visit: https://www.coj.net/departments/neighborhoods/municipal-code-compliance

• Planning and Development
  The Planning and Development Department manages existing and future development within the City of Jacksonville. Matters pertaining to zoning, the Comprehensive Plan, land use, concurrency, mobility, transportation policy, addressing, building codes and inspections all fall within the purview of the Planning and Development Department. While its responsibilities are varied, the Department ensures that development and the implementation of programs and activities in Jacksonville occurs in a logical, safe, orderly and fair manner.

  
  Visit: https://www.coj.net/departments/planning-and-development

• Property Appraiser
  Welcome to the Duval County Property Appraiser’s website. Our staff is dedicated to providing you, the public, with the information you need to understand our role in determining your property values. We are here to assist you with commercial, residential, tangible personal property and exemption questions. On this site you can access detailed information using both our real estate property search and tangible property search as well as forms, exemption information and much, much more.

  
  Visit: https://www.coj.net/departments/property-appraiser.aspx

• Tax Collector
  The Tax Collector is responsible for the collection of ad valorem taxes and other taxes set at the local level, including those by special levying districts, state agencies, and county commissions. The Tax Collector also acts as an agent of several state departments, including the Department of Revenue, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and the Fresh Water Fish Commission.

  
  Visit: https://www.coj.net/departments/tax-collector.aspx

• City Websites in Duval

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population of over 100,000.

  • Atlantic Beach - https://coab.us/
  • Baldwin - http://www.baldwinfl.com/
  • Jacksonville - https://www.coj.net/welcome.aspx
  • Jacksonville Beach - https://www.jacksonvillebeach.org/
  • Neptune Beach - https://www.ci.neptune-beach.fl.us/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Escambia County is the 19th most populous county in the state and is home to the largest city in the Florida Panhandle. The county offers small town safety and comfort with big city amenities. Steeped in four centuries of history and bordered by pure white beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, visitors to Escambia County often return – to make it home. Escambia County is cementing its position as a contender in the aviation, marine, aerospace and tech industries.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Escambia County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://myescambia.com/

• Online Contractor Portal
  Anything you can do in-person at your local office you can do online. Examples include Apply for Permits, Pay Online, Request Inspections, Submit Files, Download Inspection Reports and Approved Plans, Check Status of a Permit, Download Permit Data, Search for Permits, Manage Contractor and Business Licenses.

  
  Visit: https://www.mygovernmentonline.org

• Economic Development
  FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance is the region’s economic development organization with the mission of building, growing and sustaining the economic potential and prosperity of Northwest Florida. The organization focuses on maximizing Northwest Florida’s economic potential through economic development initiatives, programs and services aimed at attracting and recruiting new businesses, retaining and expanding existing businesses, developing and training our workforce, nurturing the global contributions of local entrepreneurs, and developing our community and assets to position our area as a rich and fertile location for growth—be it individual, community or corporate.

  
  Visit: https://myescambia.com/businesses/economic-development

• Environmental Code Enforcement
  Environmental Enforcement enforces and investigates code, ordinance, state statute and administrative code violations committed in Escambia County.

  
  Visit: https://myescambia.com/our-services/natural-resources-management/code-enforcement

• Permitting
  Escambia County is required to comply with Florida Construction Lien Laws and all applicable state laws concerning construction permit applications and permit issuance. A completed application is required before we can assign you a permit number.

  
  Visit: https://myescambia.com/our-services/building-services/permitting

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning and Zoning Division is responsible for project management, oversight and resource coordination for planning-related projects for the Development Services Department. The division also prepares analysis for Comprehensive Plan amendments and ordinances for changes to the Land Development Code.

  
  Visit: https://myescambia.com/our-services/development-services/planning-zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.escpa.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://escambiataxcollector.com

• City Websites in Escambia

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Century - https://townofcenturyflorida.com/
  • Pensacola - https://www.cityofpensacola.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

More than miles of tranquil beaches, acres of beautiful parks, and hundreds of days of sunshine, Flagler County is situated in the center of the strongest economic corridor in the State of Florida.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Flagler County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.flaglercounty.org/

• Businesses
  Flagler County uses its resources to provide an atmosphere that is conducive to attracting and keeping business within the county for the benefit of its residents and visitors. The Department of Economic Opportunity strives to expand sustainable employment opportunities for residents, and partners with with local governments and municipalities to create a network of resources to assist businesses in all their needs. Growth Management works with commercial and residential developers to ensure projects routed, tracked and reviewed from start to finish.

  
  Visit: https://www.flaglercounty.org/business

• Contractor Licensing
  The Contractor Licensing Division provides information to those seeking licensure to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens through a contractor licensing and regulation system. It assures compliance with county and state licensing regulations, and is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Contractor Review Board. Additionally, it updates contractor records to maintain active status for permitting privileges in Flagler County, Palm Coast, Bunnell, Flagler Beach, Beverly Beach and Marineland.

  
  Visit: https://www.flaglercounty.org/departments/growth-management/contractor-licensing

• Code Enforcement
  Code Enforcement works closely with the Building Department on such cases as unpermitted building, expired permits, and new mobile home inspections. The department works with the Planning Department with issues such as unpermitted signs, illegal tree cutting, posting notices of public hearings, and many other land development code issues they may have. Additionally, Code Enforcement helps the Growth Management engineer with issues such as encroachment of rights of way and unpermitted work in rights of way.

  
  Visit: https://www.flaglercounty.org/departments/growth-management/code-enforcement

• Economic Development
  Are you evaluating business locations? If so, think Flagler. We’re more than just miles of tranquil beaches, acres of beautiful parks, and hundreds of days of sunshine! We boast all of the metropolitan advantages without the typical urban headaches.
  
  Here, our commutes are measured in minutes, not miles; our workforce pipeline is nurtured locally but attracts nationally, and our economic development team prides itself on not simply understanding your business but anticipating and responding to your needs. While it’s all about you, it’s still very personal to us!

  
  Visit: http://www.flaglercountyedc.com/

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning and Zoning Division reviews plans for residential and commercial development site plans to ensure they are constructed according to the approved plans, as well as county, state, and federal regulations. It provides guidance to design professionals, contractors, and others about Flagler County's requirements.

  
  Visit: https://www.flaglercounty.org/departments/growth-management/planning-zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://qpublic.net/fl/flagler/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.flaglertax.com/

• City Websites in Flagler

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Beverly Beach - http://www.mybeverlybeach.org/home.html
  • Bunnell - https://www.bunnellcity.us/
  • Flagler Beach - https://www.cityofflaglerbeach.com/
  • Marineland - no website listed
  • Palm Coast - https://www.palmcoastgov.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Franklin County is located in Florida’s Northwestern Panhandle approximately 80 miles southwest of the State capitol, Tallahassee. The county is comprised of 545 square miles and 348,800 acres. Franklin County serves more than 11,000 residents.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Franklin County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.franklincountyflorida.com/

• Contractor Services
  The Contractor Services Division is responsible for the registration and disciplinary control of all contractors in Franklin County. Certified Contractors are required to be registered in Franklin County annually and are required to submit insurance and current state certified license to this office.

  
  Visit: https://www.franklincountyflorida.com/county-government/planning-building/contractor-services/

• Opportunity Florida
  Chances are, you already face enough day to day challenges running your business. But here in northwest Florida, there's an exciting champion for business...Opportunity Florida! Opportunity Florida is an aggressive economic development organization committed to growing the regional economy, and we can be a valuable benefit in helping your business succeed.

  
  As a ten county regional economic development alliance, Opportunity Florida is focused on strengthening the existing businesses within Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, North Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties. We strive to provide the connectivity, resources, knowledge and leverage to help make things happen for your business. In short, our goal is to create "opportunities" for our regional businesses and workers.

  
  Visit: http://www.opportunityflorida.com/

• Planning and Building
  Links and contact information for the Planning and Building Department, including Building Services, Contractor Services, Planning Services and Flood Protection.

  
  Visit: https://www.franklincountyflorida.com/county-government/planning-building/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://franklincountypa.net/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://franklincountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Franklin

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Apalachicola - https://www.apalachicolabay.org/
  • Carrabelle - http://carrabelle.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Gadsden County in North Florida is a great place to call home. There is a tranquil beauty in the countryside here, and old-fashioned towns provide a glimpse of “Old Florida” with all the amenities of a modern lifestyle. The charm of this place belies the tremendous potential it holds for businesses seeking new and exciting opportunities. Manufacturers and distribution companies, businesses in the food and beverage industry as well as retailers and businesses that thrive on tourism will all be surprised by what they find here:

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Gadsden County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.gadsdencountyfl.gov/

• Development Council
  Contact us to explore why locating in Gadsden County, Florida could be one of the best business decisions you’ll ever make!

  
  Visit: https://www.gadsdenfldev.com/

• Building Inspection
  The Building Inspection Department ensures the health, safety and public welfare of the built environment in Gadsden County by enforcing the Florida Building Code and related Gadsden County ordinances. It is responsible for processing building permit applications, plan reviews, code compliance inspections, and monitoring construction projects to ensure they meet the quality and safety standards as required by Florida.

  
  Visit: https://www.gadsdencountyfl.gov/departments/building_inspection/index.php

• Code Enforcement
  The function of the Code Enforcement Department is to enforce the local County Ordinances as it relates to land use and property maintenance. Specifically, the Code Enforcement Officer concentrates on the investigation and abatement of complaints involving land use (zoning), housing conditions, abandoned vehicles, signs, fences and general public nuisances. Unlike the Building Department, which enforces codes pertaining to new construction, Code Enforcement focuses on existing structures and neighborhood blight.

  
  Visit: https://www.gadsdencountyfl.gov/departments/code_enforcement/index.php

• Growth Management
  The Planning division is responsible for the administration and implementation of the County's Comprehensive Plan, the Land Development Code and the Stormwater Policies and Procedures. The County's Comprehensive Plan guides long-range growth in the County and is comprised of polices that influence the type, the amount, the timing and the location of new development.

  
  Visit: https://www.gadsdencountyfl.gov/departments/planning_and_community_development/index.php

• Opportunity Florida
  Chances are, you already face enough day to day challenges running your business. But here in northwest Florida, there's an exciting champion for business...Opportunity Florida! Opportunity Florida is an aggressive economic development organization committed to growing the regional economy, and we can be a valuable benefit in helping your business succeed.

  
  As a ten county regional economic development alliance, Opportunity Florida is focused on strengthening the existing businesses within Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, North Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties. We strive to provide the connectivity, resources, knowledge and leverage to help make things happen for your business. In short, our goal is to create "opportunities" for our regional businesses and workers.

  
  Visit: http://www.opportunityflorida.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://gadsdenpa.com/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: http://www.gadsdentaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Gadsden

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Chattahoochee - https://chattgov.org/
  • Greensboro - https://www.greensboro-fl.com/
  • Gretna - https://mygretna.com/
  • Havana - https://www.townofhavana.com/
  • Midway - https://www.mymidwayfl.com/
  • Quincy - http://www.myquincy.net/i/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

The vision for Gilchrist County is rural communities working in harmony to provide opportunities for all its citizens through balanced growth and enhanced education, while preserving our proud heritage, natural resources and agriculture.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Gilchrist County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://gilchrist.fl.us/

• Building, Planning and Zoning
  Links and contact information for building, permitting, planning, zoning and fire safety.

  
  Visit: https://gilchrist.fl.us/onlinepermitting/

• Code Enforcement
  Contact information for the Division of Code Enforcement.

  
  Visit: https://gilchrist.fl.us/code-enforcement

• Economic Advisory Council
  In Florida – and here in Gilchrist County – certain industry sectors have been identified as “targeted industry.” These are desirable job creation areas because of the economic impact and desirable jobs they bring. The state has identified the following as targeted industry: Aviation & Aerospace, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Defense and Homeland Security, Information Technology, Financial and Professional Services, Logistics & Distribution, Cleantech and Headquarters. Along with those industries, Gilchrist County also recognizes the importance that agriculture has to the region and our communities.

  
  Visit: https://gilchristeconomics.com/

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.qpublic.net/fl/gilchrist/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://fl-gilchrist-taxcollector.publicaccessnow.com/

• City Websites in Gilchrist

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Bell - https://townofbellflorida.com/
  • Fanning Springs - https://www.fanningsprings.org/
  • Trenton - https://www.trentonflorida.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Glades County’s central location within Southern Florida, just over two hours from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Orlando and nearly equidistant between Fort Myers and West Palm Beach makes us a natural hub for the emerging international and domestic warehousing/distribution and manufacturing markets, via road, rail and air.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Glades County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.myglades.com/

• Building Division
  Links and contact information for the county's building division, applications, forms, plans review and inspections.

  
  Visit: https://www.myglades.com/departments/community_development/building_department/index.php

• Code Compliance
  The Code Compliance Officer primarily focuses on and investigates code violations reported to this office by citizens, which means that their work is mostly reactive and complaint-driven. In some situations, the officer will act in a proactive manner if an obvious code violation is noticed.

  
  Visit: https://www.myglades.com/departments/community_development/code_enforcement.php

• Economic Development
  Resources to help you select a business location and determine if your industry is right for Glades County.

  
  Visit: https://gladescountyedc.com/

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning Commission makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on the following items: Comprehensive Plan Amendments, Rezonings, Zoning Code Text Amendments, and Subdivision Plan and Plats

  
  Visit: https://www.myglades.com/departments/community_development/planning_and_zoning/index.php

• Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance
  The goal of Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance is to draw business development to the five counties comprising Southwest Florida, including Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades County. We want to be a marketing engine for Southwest Florida to promote businesses growth to the region. The Alliance serves as a non-parochial economic development coordinator to site selectors, real estate consultants and targeted companies, working in collaboration with the local economic development organizations.

  
  Visit: https://swfleda.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: http://qpublic.net/fl/glades/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: http://www.mygladescountytaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Glades

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Moore Haven - http://www.moorehaven.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Gulf County, Florida is a place where both businesses and families can thrive. Visitors are increasingly discovering our upbeat, down home way of life and becoming residents. You'll find some of the friendliest people you've ever met here--we think it's contagious because it's not just the locals who wave anymore.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Gulf County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: http://www.gulfcounty-fl.gov/

• Building Department
  This department provides a variety of building services throughout Gulf County: construction plan reviews, issues building permits, conducts building inspections, and provides code enforcement services.

  
  Visit: http://www.gulfcounty-fl.gov/county_government/building_department

• Economic Development
  The vision of the Gulf County Economic Development Coalition is, in collaboration with its stakeholders, to create diverse, stable, and consistent employment opportunities that build wealth and provide better economic conditions for Gulf County.

  
  Visit: http://www.gulfcountyedc.com/

• Opportunity Florida
  Chances are, you already face enough day to day challenges running your business. But here in northwest Florida, there's an exciting champion for business...Opportunity Florida! Opportunity Florida is an aggressive economic development organization committed to growing the regional economy, and we can be a valuable benefit in helping your business succeed.

  
  As a ten county regional economic development alliance, Opportunity Florida is focused on strengthening the existing businesses within Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, North Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties. We strive to provide the connectivity, resources, knowledge and leverage to help make things happen for your business. In short, our goal is to create "opportunities" for our regional businesses and workers.

  
  Visit: http://www.opportunityflorida.com/

• Planning & Development
  Our goal is to ensure that Gulf County is the ideal safe place to live, work and play now and in the future. Our mission is to deliver outstanding leadership and services that enhance the quality of life for all Gulf County Residents and visitors.

  
  Visit: http://www.gulfcounty-fl.gov/county_government/planning___development/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://gulfpa.com/#

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.gulfcountytaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Gulf

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Port Saint Joe - https://www.cityofportstjoe.com/
  • Wewahitchka - https://www.cityofwewahitchka.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Hamilton County is located in North Central Florida, with Georgia forming its northern border. The county (often called a peninsula within a peninsula) is separated from the rest of Florida by the Withlacoochee River on the west and the beautiful Suwannee River to the east and south. In the middle of the county is the fascinating Alapaha River, called the “River of Sand,” which disappears underground during certain parts of the year leaving a dry, sandy riverbed. At the crossroads of I-75 and I-10, Hamilton County is easily accessed from Jacksonville, Gainesville or Tallahassee. If you are looking for a rural area, rich in history, and loaded with real Southern charm, Hamilton County says, “come for a visit, stay for a lifetime.”

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Hamilton County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://hamiltoncountyfl.com/

• Building Department
  The Building Department is responsible for providing the following services: building permits, coordinating inspections, and technical assistance to the county. This office is the permitting agency and provides inspection services for the following towns and cities: Jasper, Jennings, and White Springs. This office also services the Construction Industries Licensing Board.

  
  Visit: https://hamiltoncountyfl.com/building-department

• Economic Development
  Hamilton County’s location provides perfect positioning for a range of industries. We are welcoming of businesses of all sizes because we understand that a healthy and holistic economy provides opportunities from the upcoming entrepreneur to the family farmer, from the international phosphate mining company to the celebrity chef looking to give back to his hometown. And just as they have found success in our hometown, you can too.

  
  Visit: https://www.hamiltoncda.org

• Enterprise Zone Development
  The Hamilton County Enterprise Zone consists of 19.87 square miles. This includes three Interstate Interchanges, portion of each municipality, some land along I-75 and property along portions of US 129 and US 41. The EZDA is the local approval authority for Enterprise Zone incentives, in coordination with the Board of County Commissioners.

  
  Visit: https://hamiltoncountyfl.com/enterprise-zone-development

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Planning, Land Use and Zoning
  The Land Use Department is responsible for implementing the Hamilton County Comprehensive Plan and the Hamilton County Land Development Regulations. This includes zoning, future land use, special exceptions, temporary use permits, etc.

  
  Visit: https://hamiltoncountyfl.com/planning-land-use-and-zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://hamiltonpa.com/#

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.hamiltoncountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Hamilton

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Jasper - https://jasper-fl.com/
  • Jennings - no website listed
  • White Springs - https://whitesprings.org

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Born in the mid-1800s from the forts erected against the Indian attacks, the central Florida soil that comprises Hardee County today is some of the richest in the world. We are one of the country’s top prime agricultural centers – our abundant produce and prize-winning livestock bring top dollar, our sweet Valencia oranges in constant demand. It’s a legacy of success that’s made Hardee County one of a kind.

“Quality of life” takes on new meaning in a setting where children can walk to neighborhood schools, housing is affordable and appealing, businesses enjoy minimal overhead and optimal labor force and the pace stays somewhere between smooth and steady.

Life in Hardee County means land, lots of it – some 500,000 acres. It means clean air, clean water, safe streets, friendly neighbors, affordable living and “hometown” fun. It’s this one-of-a-kind life that unites the over 28,000 residents of Hardee County in our effort to at once enhance and ensure all this heartland haven has to offer.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Hardee County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.hardeecounty.net/

• Hardee County Chamber of Commerce
  The Mission of the Hardee County Chamber of Commerce is to enhance and develop stronger bonding among businesses, the government, educational services and the community, through positive programs and events that fosters business growth and lifetime residency.

  
  Visit: https://www.hardeecc.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://hardeepa.com/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.hardeecountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Hardee

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Bowling Green - https://bowlinggreenfl.org/
  • Wauchula - https://www.cityofwauchula.com/
  • Zolfo Springs - https://www.townofzolfo.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Hendry County is located in Florida's heartland. Some say it's in a prime location to start a business, while others say it's the perfect small community to call home. Grab your boots and your business and come on down to rural Florida, we invite you to explore our thriving, small town today!

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Hendry County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.hendryfla.net/index.php

• Economic Development Office & Services
  The Hendry County Economic Development Council is committed to helping our community prosper through many strategic initiatives. We will continue to implement new strategies that will move our community forward and position us for sustainable growth.

  
  Visit: https://hendryedc.com

• Licensing and Code Enforcement
  This office serves the public by issuing permits for all new construction, additions, remodels, renovations, service equipment change outs and construction in general. It is always wise to contact the Building Department for permitting requirements prior to beginning any new building projects.

  
  Visit: https://www.hendryfla.net/building_code_enforcement/index.php

• Planning and Zoning
  Planning and Zoning seeks to develop partnerships with businesses, residents, landowners, and stakeholders to build a sustainable, prosperous community that distinguishes Hendry County. This inclusive approach supports and facilities growth as outlined in the Hendry County Comprehensive Plan.

  
  Visit: https://www.hendryfla.net/planning.php

• Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance
  The goal of Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance is to draw business development to the five counties comprising Southwest Florida, including Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades County. We want to be a marketing engine for Southwest Florida to promote businesses growth to the region. The Alliance serves as a non-parochial economic development coordinator to site selectors, real estate consultants and targeted companies, working in collaboration with the local economic development organizations.

  
  Visit: https://swfleda.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.hendryprop.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.hendrycountytc.com

• City Websites in Hendry

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Clewiston - https://www.clewiston-fl.gov/
  • LaBelle - https://citylabelle.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

If you are looking to build or relocate to an existing facility, you'll find that Hernando County offers an extraordinary mix of logistics and livability in the northern Tampa Bay region of Brooksville, Spring Hill and Weeki Wachee. Our diverse economy includes building, manufacturing, agriculture, retail trade services and tourism, as well as government, education and health care. Hernando County property taxes are very reasonable, our work force is able, and the pro-business climate is as sunny as our weather.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Hernando County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.hernandocounty.us

• Business & Occupancy Permit
  An Occupancy Permit is required when a business moves into a new or existing location or for the expansion of an existing business. The occupancy permit process provides the business owner the opportunity to meet with county inspectors to ensure that the space meets zoning, building, and fire code requirements for the specific business. The Certificate of Occupancy authorizes use of the building. Please view the Occupancy Permit application for more information.

  
  Visit: https://www.hernandocounty.us/departments/departments-a-e/building-division/business-information

• Building Division
  Resources include information regarding permit statistics, contractor permits, building permits, inspections, and starting a business in Hernando County.

  
  Visit: https://www.hernandocountygis-fl.us/BldgDept/

• Economic Development
  The Office of Economic Development is prepared to provide you the market information and personal service you need to make an informed decision, and we are eager to demonstrate why Hernando County is... A Great Place to START, the Best Place to STAY

  
  Visit: https://www.hernandobusiness.com/

• Planning Department
  The Planning Department encourages quality growth and development through its management of the County’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations. We are involved with rezoning, master plan review, special exception permits, conditional use permits and concurrency; while working in tandem with the Zoning Department, Code Enforcement and THEBus, our transit system. The department conducts the review of new development projects and provides expertise to the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners.

  
  Visit: https://www.hernandocounty.us/departments/departments-n-z/planning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.hernandopa-fl.us/PAWebSite/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.hernandocounty.us/departments/other-government-agencies/tax-collector

• City Websites in Hernando

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Brooksville - https://www.cityofbrooksville.us/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Located in the center of the Sunshine State, Highlands County’s inland location provides quick connectivity to Florida’s metro markets with ample room for growth and operating costs that are 12 to 15 percent lower than nearby metro areas. Highlands County offers a robust, regional workforce of 125,000 and a talent pipeline of more than 22,000 students are located within an hour’s drive. Match this with quality infrastructure, a foreign trade zone, competitive business climate, NO impact fees, and picturesque hometowns like Sebring, Avon Park and Lake Placid, you’ll soon want to make Highlands County your new home.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Highlands County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.highlandsfl.gov/

• Development Services
  The Development Services Department exists to create a quality community life for the citizens of Highlands County, which is accomplished through implementing county wide building, code enforcement, comprehensive planning and zoning policies and regulations that will ensure that Highlands County can respond to the ever-changing needs and values of its citizens.

  
  Visit: https://www.highlandsfl.gov/departments/development_services/index.php

• Economic Development
  The Highlands County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) / Economic Development Commission (EDC) represents a public/private partnership between the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), the BOCC's Economic Development Office, and the business community. This partnership is designed to foster and promote sustainable economic growth in Highlands County.

  
  We have a commitment for growth and a determination to make your move to or expansion in Highlands County easy and worry free. The board's mission is to, "Enhance the quality of life in Highlands County by attracting a diversity of new businesses, increase industrial investment, and facilitate the retention and expansion of existing business and industry."

  
  Visit: https://www.highlandsbusiness.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.hcpao.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.hctaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Highlands

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Avon Park - http://avonpark.cc/
  • Lake Placid - http://www.lakeplacidfl.net/
  • Sebring - https://www.mysebring.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Hillsborough County drives economic development by creating new opportunities for employment and business growth throughout the region. We foster a fruitful and innovative business climate through targeted incentive programs, leveraging the expertise and resources of county agencies, departments, and strategic partnerships.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Hillsborough County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/

• Business Community
  Here you can connect with local chambers of commerce and nonprofits, learn about grant opportunities, or gain marketing benefits by taking part in our sponsorship events.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/businesses/business-community

• Codes and Ordinances
  Hillsborough County makes and enforces ordinances and codes that serve and protect residents, ranging from animal and noise control to rules regarding panhandling and stoplights. Regulations also cover property maintenance, directives for County Administration and policies for the Board of County Commissioners.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/government/codes-and-ordinances

• Contractor Licensing
  Contractors must be licensed and in good standing. Contractors can find license renewal applications, requirements and fee information here. You can also look up a contractor’s license or file a complaint.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/businesses/permits-and-records/contractor-licensing

• Entrepreneur and Small Business Support
  Whether you’re a tomato farmer in Ruskin or a boutique owner in Westchase, we offer a range of resources that can help grow your small business. Here you can connect with advisors, access training, network with other businesses, and find funding.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/businesses/entrepreneur-and-small-business-support

• Permits and Records
  To help ensure that structures meet safety standards, we issue permits for residential and commercial construction, including renovations and certain upgrades and installations. Here you can find applications, check your permit status, or search records for contractor license information and fees. You'll also find the locations of our permitting offices.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/businesses/permits-and-records

• Zoning
  Zoning focuses on how land is currently being used and how it will be used in the future. The goal is to provide for public safety and protect the character of neighborhoods. Here you will find zoning applications, maps, fees, and other helpful information.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/businesses/zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.hcpafl.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.hillstax.org/

• City Websites in Hillsborough

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population of over 100,000.

  • Plant City - https://www.plantcitygov.com/
  • Tampa - https://www.tampagov.net/
  • Temple Terrace - https://www.templeterrace.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Holmes County is a small rural county rich in natural beauty, history, pristine nature based activities and known for its southern hospitality. Holmes County is also a business friendly community that welcomes new and expanding businesses to the area.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Holmes County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://holmescountyfla.com/

• Building, Planning, & Zoning
  Includes contact information for building officials and links to required permit applications.

  
  Visit: https://holmescountyfla.com/building-planning-zoning/

• Opportunity Florida
  Chances are, you already face enough day to day challenges running your business. But here in northwest Florida, there's an exciting champion for business...Opportunity Florida! Opportunity Florida is an aggressive economic development organization committed to growing the regional economy, and we can be a valuable benefit in helping your business succeed.

  
  As a ten county regional economic development alliance, Opportunity Florida is focused on strengthening the existing businesses within Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, North Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties. We strive to provide the connectivity, resources, knowledge and leverage to help make things happen for your business. In short, our goal is to create "opportunities" for our regional businesses and workers.

  
  Visit: http://www.opportunityflorida.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://qpublic.net/fl/holmes/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.holmestax.com/

• City Websites in Holmes

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Bonifay - https://cityofbonifay.com/
  • Esto - https://estoflorida.com/
  • Noma - no website listed
  • Ponce de Leon - https://www.poncedeleonfl.com/index.html
  • Westville - no website listed

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

For those who enjoy this idyllic location year round, Indian River County, Florida offers the best of both worlds: a desirable location for business and pleasure with a balance that helps build your business in the sun.

Those who live, work or visit here find that our communities are safe, modern and loaded with ecological, cultural, educational and technological amenities. Our county also offers a cost-competitive place to grow or expand your business, with lease rates averaging $3-$6 per square foot for your build-to-suit site.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Indian River County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.ircgov.com

• Building
  It is the responsibility of the County Building Division to enforce State Minimum Building Codes adopted by the County. The Building Code covers all types of construction and includes provisions relating to plumbing, electrical, mechanical, building, and other activities, as well as Florida Accessibility Code and Florida Energy Code provisions. Enforcement involves issuing of construction, repair and demolition permits; reviewing building plans and conducting inspections.

  
  Visit: https://www.irccdd.com/Building_Division/Index.htm

• Code Enforcement
  The two main responsibilities of this section are to implement County comprehensive plan environmental policies and to enforce general codes and ordinances enacted by the County to protect community standards. Specific duties involve approving various permits (e.g. land clearing, tree removal, sign zoning, home occupations), issuing code violation citations, and performing site plan reviews and inspections. Environmental planning also falls under this section's duties, including environmental aspects of comprehensive planning and site plan review. This section's staff also coordinates with the County Parks Division on management of conservation lands acquired under the County Environmental Lands Program.

  
  Visit: https://www.irccdd.com/Code_Enforcement_Division/Index.htm

• Contractor Licensing
  Visit this webpage for information about registering as a licensed contractor in Indian River County.

  
  Visit: https://irccdd.com/Building_Division/Licensing/Index.htm

• Economic Development
  The Indian River County Chamber of Commerce is the designated organization for economic development and for tourism. Our community is prepared to make your business expansion or relocation plans easy and rewarding. Business retention/expansion is a crucial component of our economic development program.

  
  Visit: https://indianrivered.com/

• Planning
  The County Planning Division consists of two sections - Long Range Planning and Current Development. Activities include updating and amending the Comprehensive Plan, implementing the comprehensive plan by updating and modifying land development regulations (LDRs); preparing Comprehensive Plan Evaluation and Appraisal Reports (EAR); undertaking special planning efforts (e.g. corridor and small area plans); reviewing, issuing, and tracking permits; maintaining a concurrency management system; approving site plans and plats; updating zoning, land use and other maps; and participating in a wide variety of ad-hoc groups, advisory committees, and boards to handle special issues and implement interlocal agreements and inter-governmental coordination policies. Areas of involvement also include affordable housing and zoning matters.

  
  Visit: https://www.irccdd.com/Planning_Division/Index.htm

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.ircpa.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.irctax.com

• City Websites in Indian River

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Fellsmere - https://www.cityoffellsmere.org/
  • Indian River Shores - https://www.irshores.com/
  • Orchid - https://www.townoforchid.com/
  • Sebastian - https://www.cityofsebastian.org
  • Vero Beach - https://www.covb.org

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Jackson County offers shovel-ready sites, modern infrastructure and a trained and dedicated workforce for distribution and manufacturing companies. We are the logistics cross-roads of Northwest Florida and are ready to move your product to your target market. Jackson County and the State of Florida offer a business-friendly environment with liberal tax rates – plus unsurpassed quality of life.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Jackson County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://jacksoncountyfl.gov/

• Building, Planning, & Zoning
  The Building Department of the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners strives to safe guard the health, safety and welfare of Jackson County residents, businesses, and visitors by providing services such as inspections on new structures and major improvements of existing structures, ensuring that all construction complies with State and local building requirements, and issuance of contractor competency cards.

  
  Visit: https://jacksoncounty.portal.iworq.net/portalhome/jacksoncounty

• Code Enforcement
  The Code Enforcement Division mainly deals with nuisance violations and permitting with the main goals being to promote a safe and desirable living and working environment and to ultimately gain voluntary compliance by violators.

  
  Visit: https://jacksoncounty.portal.iworq.net/portalhome/jacksoncounty

• Economic Development
  The Jackson County Economic Development Committee is at work every day to match the best workers, sites, incentives, and infrastructure with the businesses growing in and moving to Jackson County.

  
  Visit: https://www.jacksonedc.com

• Opportunity Florida
  Chances are, you already face enough day to day challenges running your business. But here in northwest Florida, there's an exciting champion for business...Opportunity Florida! Opportunity Florida is an aggressive economic development organization committed to growing the regional economy, and we can be a valuable benefit in helping your business succeed.

  
  As a ten county regional economic development alliance, Opportunity Florida is focused on strengthening the existing businesses within Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, North Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties. We strive to provide the connectivity, resources, knowledge and leverage to help make things happen for your business. In short, our goal is to create "opportunities" for our regional businesses and workers.

  
  Visit: http://www.opportunityflorida.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.qpublic.net/fl/jackson

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.jacksoncountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Jackson

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Alford - no website listed
  • Bascom - no website listed
  • Callahan - https://www.townofcallahan-fl.gov/
  • Campbellton - no website listed
  • Cottondale - https://www.cityofcottondale.net/
  • Graceville - https://www.cityofgraceville.com/
  • Grand Ridge - no website listed
  • Greenwood - http://townofgreenwood.org
  • Jacob City - https://jacobcity.webs.com/
  • Malone - no website listed
  • Marianna - https://www.cityofmarianna.com/
  • Sneads - https://www.sneadsfl.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Jefferson County - the Keystone County. Located at the junction of Florida’s panhandle and peninsula, and stretching from the Gulf Coast to Georgia, Jefferson County is a strategic cornerstone for commerce in North Florida. It offers great potential for businesses and companies looking to relocate or expand.

The county enjoys the benefits of being located within the Tallahassee MSA ( Metropolitan Statistical Area). You will find active business resources, a talented workforce and shopping & entertainment venues, yet our natural beauty and laid back lifestyle provide a quiet respite from urban confusion and stress.

Jefferson County offers enormous potential for clean industry, commerce, agriculture and retail businesses with its regional draw, mild climate and easy access to logistical thoroughfares. The area’s natural beauty and historic quality of life provide your employees with a quiet respite while offering a multitude of cultural and entertainment choices only a short drive away.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Jefferson County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: http://www.jeffersoncountyfl.gov/

• Building
  The Jefferson County Building Department is dedicated to the pursuit of a safer living and working environment for the citizens of Jefferson County. In a cooperative effort between the residents, professional tradesmen and highly trained department staff, the Building Department ensures compliance with the State Building Codes and Regulations.

  
  Visit: http://www.jeffersoncountyfl.gov/p/county-departments/building

• Economic Development
  Jefferson County Economic Development is committed to assisting companies, site consultants and investors in finding the right site for their business. We also help existing businesses to thrive and grow.

  
  Visit: https://jeffersoncountyedc.org/

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Planning
  Please contact the Planning Department office prior to taking any action, or for answers to any questions, related to land use or the subdivision of property. Building and other types of permits will not be issued for any site without issuance of a Development Permit from the Planning Department.

  
  Visit: http://www.jeffersoncountyfl.gov/p/county-departments/planning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://jeffersonpa.net

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://jeffersoncountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Jefferson

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Monticello - https://www.cityofmonticello.us/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Mayo, Florida and the surrounding area in Lafayette County Florida has a wide variety of businesses. We want to encourage more businesses to relocate to this area and to keep the ones that are already here going into the future.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Lafayette County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://lafayettecountyfl.org/

• Building
  The Lafayette County Building Dept. is here for public safety and to help with construction questions and concerns. We are responsible for checking Zoning on any property to make sure that you build in the correct location on your property and that you build according to FEMA regulations and Florida Building Code requirements. We are also responsible for reviewing building plans to ensure that they are up to Florida Building Code and structurally sound. We are also here to ensure that all contractors are licensed and carry work comp.
  
  Contact information for county officials and direct links to forms for permit and other applications.

  Visit: https://lafayettecountyfl.org/building-department/

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: http://www.lafayettepa.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: http://www.lafayettetc.com

• City Websites in Lafayette

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Mayo - https://townofmayo.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

With its prime location, pro-business approach and unparalleled quality of life, Lake County is undoubtedly open for business.

Lake County offers small town character, combined with the amenities of a major metropolitan city. Centrally located In the state, with easy access to interstates, highways, railways, seaports and international airports, companies in Lake County are able to service businesses throughout the state, nation and world, with down-home southern hospitality and a smile. This also makes Lake County an attractive destination for tourists, and the best and brightest employment candidates.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Lake County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.lakecountyfl.gov/

• Building
  Mission: To administer and enforce all building and licensing related laws, rules and regulations in order to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public. To provide the residents of Lake County with trained and qualified inspectors to perform building inspections in an efficient and timely manner. To provide the highest level of customer service by a fully-trained team dedicated to serving the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.lakecountyfl.gov/offices/building_services/

• Contractor Certification
  The purpose of Contractor Certification is to promote, protect and improve the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Lake County through a contractor' certification and regulation system; to assure compliance with the State and County construction licensing regulations; and to minimize losses to the public due to unlawful conduct of both certified and uncertified contractors.

  
  Contractors who wish to obtain building permits in Lake County may do so if they hold a State of Florida Certificate of Competency, (State Certified), or are registered with the State (State Registered) through Lake County, or who hold a Lake County local license Certificate of Competency.

  
  Visit: https://www.lakecountyfl.gov/offices/building_services/contractor_certification/

• Economic Development
  Placing great emphasis on being the most business friendly county In the State and contributing significant resources To economic development and job growth, the Lake County Board Of County Commissioners is determined to create a robust and healthy economy For Lake County's citizens and businesses.

  
  Visit: https://elevatelake.com/

• Planning and Zoning
  Among other things, the Office of Planning & Zoning provides services for review of Commercial/Industrial Site Plans, including expedited review of Economic Development Projects.

  
  Visit: https://www.lakecountyfl.gov/offices/planning_and_zoning/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.lakecopropappr.com/index.aspx

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.laketax.com/

  Effective May 19, 2020, the Lake Country Board of County Commissioners voted to repeal the Business Tax Receipt ordinance. Businesses should contact their municipality to comply with local requirements.

• City Websites in Lake

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Astatula - https://townofastatula.com/
  • Clermont - https://www.clermontfl.gov
  • Eustis - https://www.eustis.org/
  • Fruitland Park - https://www.fruitlandpark.org/
  • Groveland - https://www.groveland-fl.gov/
  • Howey-in-the-Hills - https://www.howey.org/
  • Lady Lake - https://www.ladylake.org/
  • Leesburg - https://www.leesburgflorida.gov/
  • Mascotte - https://www.cityofmascotte.com/
  • Minneola - https://www.minneola.us/
  • Montverde - https://mymontverde.com/
  • Mount Dora - https://ci.mount-dora.fl.us/
  • Tavares - https://www.tavares.org/
  • Umatilla - https://www.umatillafl.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Located in Southwest Florida on the Gulf Coast, Lee County is home to a thriving business community and world-class quality of life. Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Estero, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel / Captiva are all located in Lee County.

Lee County’s low cost of living, lifestyle amenities, growing workforce, and year-round sunshine make it an ideal place for business and life.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Lee County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.leegov.com/

• Business Incentives
  Incentives are an important part of any site location decision. The Lee County Economic Development Office will collaborate with you to find the best incentive program for your project.

  
  Visit: https://leecountybusiness.com/relocate/incentives

• Community Development (Building, Permitting, Planning, Zoning, etc.)
  Lee County Community Development oversees planning, zoning, development and building services, environmental review, building inspections, and code enforcement for the unincorporated areas of Lee County. Please contact the incorporated areas of Bonita Springs, Cape Coral, Estero, Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel for similar services within those jurisdictions. (See City Websites in Lee County below.)

  
  Visit: https://www.leegov.com/dcd

• Contractor Licensing
  T?o perform work in unincorporated Lee County, contractors must have a state-issued license OR a Certificate of Competency (a.k.a. local license), which is subject to an application and issuance through Lee County. A contractor must also have a current Certificate of Insurance for liability and workers' compensation and/or a current workers' compensation exemption status with the State of Florida.?

  
  Visit: https://www.leegov.com/dcd/ContLic

• Economic Development
  The Lee County Economic Development Office provides business assistance to retain existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and attract new business so that Lee County has a strong economy, thriving communities, and broadly shared prosperity.

  
  Visit: https://leecountybusiness.com/

• Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance
  The goal of Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance is to draw business development to the five counties comprising Southwest Florida, including Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades County. We want to be a marketing engine for Southwest Florida to promote businesses growth to the region. The Alliance serves as a non-parochial economic development coordinator to site selectors, real estate consultants and targeted companies, working in collaboration with the local economic development organizations.

  
  Visit: https://swfleda.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.leepa.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.leetc.com/

• City Websites in Lee

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population of over 100,000.

  • Bonita Springs - https://www.cityofbonitasprings.org/
  • Cape Coral - https://www.capecoral.net/
  • Fort Myers - https://www.cityftmyers.com/
  • Fort Myers Beach - https://www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov/
  • Sanibel - https://www.mysanibel.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

There are so many reasons to consider Florida's capital region for your business. Along with world-class research institutes like the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, we're attracting a growing list of innovative companies, cultural offerings, and workforce training options — plus our fair share of accolades. You could also say we attract a lot of success.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Leon County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/

• Business Resources
  The Office of Economic Vitality is an economic development model that ensures accountability, transparency, citizen engagement and professional management of economic development projects. The Office of Economic Vitality aims to develop programs and initiatives while simultaneously leveraging ideas, innovations and intellectual capital through the continuous coordination of the community’s economic development partners. This office works diligently to create a one-stop-shop for the community’s economic development needs.

  
  Visit: https://oevforbusiness.org

• Building Plans Review and Inspections
  The goal of the Division of Building Inspection is to ensure a safely built environment for the public within the unincorporated areas of Leon County. Building Inspection effectively and efficiently obtains compliance with appropriate construction codes and Leon County Code of Laws through permit issuance, plans review, inspections, use of automation technologies, training, support for the County's Contractor Licensing and Code Enforcement Boards and the Board of Adjustment and Appeals; all to be performed in a customer and staff sensitive manner.

  
  Visit: https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/dsem/Divisions/Building-Plans-Review-and-Inspection

• Contractor Licensing
  Visit the Tallahassee/Leon County Permit Portal for information about contractor certifications.

  
  Visit: https://tlcpermits.org/contract.asp

• Development Services (Planning and Zoning)
  The Tallahassee-Leon County Planning Department's mission is to provide accurate information, creative and effective planning recommendations, and expertise in the areas of long-range land use, environmental, and transportation planning for the orderly growth of the Tallahassee community.

  
  Visit: https://www.talgov.com/place/planning.aspx

• Environmental Services
  An environmental management permit shall mean an approved application for a permit for stormwater management , floodplain, landscaping, tree protection, or tree removal, as required pursuant hereto for each development project, or right-of-way placement permit, general permit, silviculture permit, or vegetative management permit, issued in lieu of an environmental management permit for development activity.

  
  Visit: https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Home/Departments/Development-Support-and-Environmental-Management/Environmental-Services

• Minority, Women & Small Business Enterprises
  The Office of Economic Vitality’s Minority, Women, & Small Business Enterprise (MWSBE) Division is committed to communicating the City of Tallahassee and Leon County procurement and contracting opportunities, enhancing business relationships, and increasing participation opportunities for certified minority, women, and small business enterprises.

  
  Visit: https://oevforbusiness.org/mwsbe/

• Permit and Code Services
  The Department of Development Support and Environmental Management Permit and Code Services Division consists of Code Enforcement, Contractors Licensing, Permit Intake, and Fiscal Administration. The division is the central intake point of building, and environmental permit applications, and code compliance complaints.

  
  Visit: https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Home/Departments/Development-Support-and-Environmental-Management/Permit-and-Code-Services

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.leonpa.org/_dnn/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.leontaxcollector.net

• City Websites in Leon

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population of over 100,000.

  • Tallahassee - https://www.talgov.com/Main/Home.aspx

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Levy County is located in north-central Florida and is approximately 133 miles southwest of the State capitol, Tallahassee. The county is comprised of 1,413 square miles, of which 1,118 square miles is land and 295 square miles is water. Levy County serves more than 40,000 residents. The County is governed by the Levy County Board of County Commissioners. The Commission, which is the legislative branch of government, serves as the county governing board for the residents of the unincorporated areas.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Levy County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.levycounty.org/

• Building, Permits and Zoning
  The Building Department is tasked with the enforcement of the building codes, construction industry licensing laws, national flood insurance program requirements and other regulations as mandated by the Federal and State governments, as well as County ordinances as adopted for un-incorporated Levy County. The Building Permits section is comprised of Customer Services and Plans Examination. Customer Service Representatives (Permit Specialists and Permit Technicians) are responsible for receiving and accepting permit applications, issuing permits, checking contractors for required licenses and permit history. The Plans Examiners are responsible for reviewing plans and related documents to ensure that they meet the requirements of the building codes, regulations, and ordinances in effect.

  
  Visit: https://www.levycounty.org/department/building_department/index.php

• Code Enforcement
  Code Enforcement provides a comprehensive inspection system to ensure that housing units in the unincorporated area meet certain standards under the county’s Minimum Housing Code. It handles complaints concerning nuisances such as inoperable vehicles and trash on lots. It is responsible for enforcement of the County Zoning Code, and condemnation/demolition of unsafe structures.

  
  Visit: https://www.levycounty.org/department/code_enforcement/index.php

• Nature Coast Business Development Council
  The Nature Coast Business Development Council, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity contracted to handle economic development on behalf of Levy County and its eight incorporated municipalities. The organization looks to improve the quality of life for its resident by helping existing businesses grow while attracting others that support these businesses. The targeted industry includes agribusiness/agritourism, aviation, financial, distribution, healthcare/medical, manufacturing, and transportation/logistics.

  Visit: https://www.levycounty.org/business/nature_coast_business_development/index.php

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.qpublic.net/fl/levy

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.levytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Levy

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Bronson - https://www.townofbronson.org/
  • Cedar Key - https://cityofcedarkey.org/
  • Chiefland - https://cityofchiefland.com/
  • Fanning Springs - https://www.fanningsprings.org/
  • Inglis - https://www.townofinglis.org
  • Otter Creek - no website listed
  • Williston - https://www.willistonfl.org/
  • Yankeetown - https://yankeetownfl.govoffice2.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Located halfway between Florida's capital city of Tallahassee and the coastal community of Panama City, Liberty County offers business and lifestyle opportunities that are truly unique. In planning for its future, this community actively works in partnership with the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce, the County Government, its residents, and Enterprise Florida, as well as regional partners such as Opportunity Florida and Florida's Great Northwest.

The result is a region whose natural assets are vast areas of forest, rivers and lakes are complimented by a growing array of business assets.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Liberty County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.libertycountyflorida.com/

• Building and Zoning
  Visit their website for more information.

  
  Visit: https://libertybocc.com/departments/building-and-zoning/

• Economic Development
  As life-long residents and curious visitors readily attest, Liberty County is serious about preserving and nurturing the best of old, natural Florida - the untamed beauty and Southern heritage that give the county its character. At the same time, Liberty County is also serious about its economic future. Working in partnership with Florida's premier economic development agency, Enterprise Florida, Inc., Liberty County offers a wide range of tax incentives to businesses that locate and create new jobs within its Rural Enterprise Zone.

  
  Visit: https://www.libertycountyflorida.com/economic-development

• Opportunity Florida
  Chances are, you already face enough day to day challenges running your business. But here in northwest Florida, there's an exciting champion for business...Opportunity Florida! Opportunity Florida is an aggressive economic development organization committed to growing the regional economy, and we can be a valuable benefit in helping your business succeed.

  
  As a ten county regional economic development alliance, Opportunity Florida is focused on strengthening the existing businesses within Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, North Walton, Wakulla and Washington counties. We strive to provide the connectivity, resources, knowledge and leverage to help make things happen for your business. In short, our goal is to create "opportunities" for our regional businesses and workers.

  
  Visit: http://www.opportunityflorida.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://libertypa.org/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.libertycountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Liberty

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Bristol - https://www.cityofbristolflorida.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Positioned in Florida's North Central Region, Madison County offers everything a business needs to open, relocate or expand successfully including ad valorem tax abatement incentives, a Florida Enterprise Zone and expedited permitting in a business-friendly local government environment.

With an "Open for Business" attitude and a supportive Board of County Commissioners, officials have given careful thought to the County's growth plans including job opportunities, residential needs and the creation of new neighborhoods, schools, roads/traffic and the overall local economy. The County is committed to its future development and prosperity by continuing to attract business investments and high wage job growth.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Madison County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://madisoncountyfl.com/

• Building
  The Building Department is responsible for the examination of building plans and specifications to ensure structural soundness and conformity with the adopted building codes and the issuance of building permits. On site inspections are made at several different times during the building process to ensure that construction or installation is in compliance with all adopted codes. Building department staff is available during business hours to answer any code questions that may arise either by telephone or personal contact. The building department is also responsible for the licensing of contractors registered through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation within Madison County; this is done through the Competency Licensing Board.

  
  Visit: https://madisoncountyfl.com/building-department/

• Code Enforcement
  The Board is a quasi-judicial forum whose creation is enabled by Chapter 162, Florida Statutes. The Board hears testimony, determines whether sufficient evidence exists to find property owners in violation of county codes/ordinances, determines if any additional time is appropriate, and the fine that should be imposed for failing to comply with its orders. The Board is composed of citizen members who voluntarily and without compensation devote their time and talents.

  
  Visit: https://madisoncountyfl.com/code-enforcement

• Development Council
  The Madison County Development Council (MCDC) serves as the economic development arm of the Board of County Commissioners. The MCDC is comprised of members representing Business, Education, Government and others from the community.

  
  Visit: http://madisonfldevelopment.com

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning & Zoning department is responsible for the interpretation and enforcement of the Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan as it relates to land use regulations, zoning codes, site and building new construction, and redevelopment for the County of Madison, the Town of Greenville, and the Town of Lee.

  
  Visit: https://madisoncountyfl.com/planning-zoning

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://madisonpa.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://madisoncountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Madison

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Greenville - https://mygreenvillefl.com/
  • Lee - https://www.leeflorida.org/
  • Madison - https://cityofmadisonfl.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Manatee County encourages business growth, good jobs and community prosperity. Whether you are an existing or potential business, resident or visitor, there are many assets that attract business and people to Manatee County, and the many ways we are at your service.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Manatee County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/

Building and Development Services

• Building Permits
  A building permit is required for construction or work on a building, or to any of its systems. This includes work to construct, enlarge, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building. It also includes work to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace impact-resistant covering, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing systems.

  
  Telephone: 941-748-4501 ext 6893
  
  Email: permitting@mymanatee.org
  
  Applications are made through an online portal here: https://aca3.accela.com/MANATEE/Default.aspx

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/building___development_services/building_permits

• Contractor Registration
  State certified contractors licensed through the State of Florida have the option of registering their state certified license with us to work in unincorporated Manatee County, or if you need to apply for a Manatee County Local License, go to the Online Services Portal at https://aca3.accela.com/MANATEE/Default.aspx.

  
  Telephone: 941-748-4501 ext 6893
  
  Email: permitting@mymanatee.org

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/building___development_services/building_permits/licensing

• Inspections
  Inspection services provides professional inspections for all trades and disciplines that are required under permit in the County, including structural, gas, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, as well as compliance with community codes for manufacturing housing and mobile homes.Items Needed on Job Site: Plans - Signed and Stamped in RED; Permit Card; and Notice of Commencement (if applicable).

  
  Telephone: (941) 749-3047
  
  Fire Inspections are required by individual fire districts: https://www.mymanatee.org/government/fire_departments

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/building___development_services/building_permits/inspections

• Planning & Zoning
  The Planning and Zoning Division disseminates and implements the Comprehensive Plan, the Land Development Regulations and provides a development process to serve the public.

  
  Planning and Zoning Division Reviewer on Call telephone:(941) 749-3070
  
  Email: revieweroncall@mymanatee.org
  
  Applications are made through an online portal here:https://aca3.accela.com/MANATEE/Default.aspx

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/building___development_services/planning___development

Economic Development

• Business Licenses
  Unincorporated Manatee County does not have a “Local Business Tax Receipt” (also known as “Occupational License”). Such tax is a requirement of Manatee County municipalities. There are state licensing requirements for a range of occupations and contractors.

  
  Telephone: (941) 748-4501 ext. 6832

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/redevelopment___economic_opportunity/economic_development

• Economic Development Services
  Manatee County’s Redevelopment and Economic Opportunity Department (REO) was created to focus on, facilitate, and incentivize redevelopment and revitalization of urban areas, and improve economic opportunities for residents and businesses through economic development, redevelopment, and community development.
  
  

  The Economic Development program seeks to retain and expand existing local business, and attract new businesses to the area to diversify the economic tax base and improve quality of life with better economic opportunities for residents and businesses.Economic development staff provide excellence in customer service on a variety of subjects, including incentives, rapid response permitting; Connections to community resource partners, business disaster prevention and recovery, business research and data.
  
  Telephone: (941) 748-4501 ext. 6832

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/redevelopment___economic_opportunity/economic_development

Financial Management

• Doing Business With Manatee County
  Manatee County invites businesses to register with Manatee County. By providing this information, Manatee County will enhance its purchasing efforts in locating sources for our communities' needs. Vendors may choose to register themselves under single or multiple product and or service categories. This is a dynamic tool which allows businesses to directly update their information.

  
  Telephone: (941) 749-3014
  
  Email: purchasing@mymanatee.org

  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/financial_management/doing_business_with_manatee_county/register_as_a_vendor

Taxes and Impact Fees

• Impact Fees
  Impact fees are one-time charges that are collected when new homes or commercial structures are constructed, or when existing homes or commercial structures are expanded in unincorporated areas of Manatee County. Impact fees are assessed when a new construction permit application is processed by the Manatee County Building Department. Collection of fees vary based on the type of fee:

  • Fire impact fees are collected before a new permit is issued.
  • County impact fees (parks, law enforcement, public safety, and roads) are collected when a Certificate of Completion/Occupancy is issued.

  All fees are paid at the cashiers' station in the Manatee County Building Department, on the fourth floor of the County Administration building at 1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida.
  
  Telephone:(941) 748-4501 ext. 3844

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/county_administration/impact_fees

• Tax Collector
  Ad Valorem Taxes (Latin for "according to worth") are taxes based upon the assessed value of:

  • Real Estate: Real estate consists of all lands, buildings, structures, fixtures and all other improvements to land. The terms "land", "real estate", "realty" and "real property" may be used interchangeably. The assessed value of real property is an annual determination of the just or fair market value of the property established by the Property Appraiser. The taxable value is determined by taking the assessed value minus the amount of any applicable exemptions.
  
  
  • Tangible Personal Property: Tangible Personal Property consists of equipment used in conducting a business, such as machinery, office equipment, furniture and fixtures. Businesses must file an annual Personal Property Tax Return with the Property Appraiser which lists the furniture and equipment being used by their business or in their rental property.

  
  
  Telephone:(941) 750-9566
  
  Additional Tangible Personal Property information is available through the Manatee County Property Appraiser here: https://www.manateepao.com/dnn/FAQs/Tangible-Personal-Property

  
  Visit: https://www.taxcollector.com/

Utilities and Public Works

• Industrial Wastewater Pretreatment Program
  All industrial, commercial, and/or governmental businesses or entities conducting operations in Manatee County and discharging any non-domestic wastewater to the sanitary sewer are subject to the requirements of the IPP. For most operations, this simply means abiding by the prohibited discharge criteria found in Section 2-31-41 of Manatee County's most current Sewer Use Ordinance. However, certain operations may be subject to additional requirements, including implementation of a wastewater pretreatment process or Best Management Practices (BMP), and regular monitoring. These operations are designated as Significant Industrial Users (SIU) and are identified as follows:

  • Operations utilizing, or engaged in, processes identified as “categorical”, as defined in 40 CFR Part 403.6, or 62-625.410 F.A.C.;
  • Operations (including groundwater remediation operations) that discharge 25,000 gallons per day or more of process wastewater (excluding sanitary, non-contact cooling and boiler blowdown wastewater);
  • Operations that discharge a process waste stream which makes up 5 percent or more of the average dry weather hydraulic or organic capacity of the POTW treatment plant;
  • Operations whose discharge has a reasonable potential to adversely affect the POTW’s operation, or for violating any pretreatment standard or requirement.

  
  
  Telephone:(941) 792-8811 ext. 5180
  
  Email: utilitiesFOG@mymanatee.org

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/utilities/commercial_wastewater_compliance/industrial_pretreatment_program

• Right-of-Way Use Permits
  Before installing any improvements, including but not limited to drainage culverts, utilities, landscaping, communication cables (such as optical fiber), natural gas pipelines, or other transmission lines of any facility on County property or in public rights-of-way, an approved Right-of-Way Use permit is required.

  
  Telephone: (941) 708-7409
  
  Applications are made through an online portal here:https://aca3.accela.com/MANATEE/Default.aspx

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/public_works/infrastructure_engineering/right-of-_way_use_permit

• Utilities
  The Customer Service Division is the primary point of contact for service connections, payment arrangements, updates to customer profiles, information requests, investigation and complaint resolution.Utility fees consist of Water Facility Investment Fees, Sewer Facility Investment Fees, Fire Facility Investment Fees, Connection Fees, Line Fees, Line Extension Fees and Direct Connect Fees (Residential Projects Only).Utility fees are calculated by the size of the meter(s) that will be required. Meter size is determined by a combination of factors such as the size of the building, the number of fixtures, the number of units, etc.

  
  The information is sent to the Utilities Department by Public Works staff when they complete the necessary calculations, and is done during the building permit process. Facility Investment Fees are due before permits are issued.
  
  Commercial Account Requirements
  
  Commercial deposits are determined by meter size and number of units. In order to establish a commercial account, Manatee County Utilities Customer Service requires the following documentation:

  • Articles of Incorporation and Tax ID number (if incorporated)
  • Driver’s license
  • Last 4 digits of the Social Security number of the owner (if not incorporated), or state business license

  
  For more information, determination of meter size and deposit amount, please call Utilities Customer Service at :(941) 792-8811
  
  
  Email: utilitiescustomerservice@mymanatee.org

  
  Visit: https://www.mymanatee.org/departments/utilities

Other Local Resources

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.manateepao.com/

• City Websites in Manatee

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Anna Maria - http://www.cityofannamaria.com/
  • Bradenton - https://www.cityofbradenton.com/
  • Bradenton Beach - https://www.cityofbradentonbeach.com/
  • Holmes Beach - https://www.holmesbeachfl.org/
  • Longboat Key - https://www.longboatkey.org
  • Palmetto - https://www.palmettofl.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

The Ocala Metro economy is characterized by our abundance of natural resources and prime geographic location. The economic action plan is focused on five key areas to keep our economy moving forward: logistics, advanced manufacturing in food and beverage, advanced manufacturing in aerospace, back office operations with special focus on finance and logistics, and the equine industry.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Marion County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.marioncountyfl.org/

• Building Codes, Inspections, Licensing and Permits
  Marion County Building Safety strives to ensure the health, safety and public welfare of the built environment in Marion County by enforcing the Florida Building Code and related Marion County ordinances in an efficient and cost-effective manner. To ensure a safe built environment, the department issues permits, reviews plans, verifies contractor licenses and performs inspections for each project.

  
  Visit: https://www.marionfl.org/government/departments-facilities-offices/building-safety

• Contractor Licensing
  The contractor licensing division is responsible for making sure contractors working in Marion County are properly licensed by Marion County and/or the State of Florida. A contractor licensing representative maintains records for the division and a license check is made each time a permit is issued.

  
  Visit: https://www.marionfl.org/government/departments-facilities-offices/building-safety/contractor-licensing

• Growth Services (Planning and Zoning)
  Marion County Growth Services plans, guides and protects timely growth and development in Marion County by engaging in proactive, inclusive and community-oriented goals and guidelines covered in the Marion County Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code. Our staff works toward balancing community livability, economic viability and environmental sensitivity through its three service divisions: Code Enforcement, Planning and Zoning.

  
  Visit: https://www.marionfl.org/government/departments-facilities-offices/growth-services

• Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership
  A truly prosperous community will not only attract new businesses and retain existing ones, but it will foster business creation. The Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP) continues to expand current business creation efforts through our entrepreneurial programming, technical assistance, capital access initiatives, and the Power Plant Business Incubator. We are committed to assisting existing and prospective entrepreneurs by providing the tools and resource to support them throughout the process from start-up through expansion.

  
  Visit: https://ocalacep.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.pa.marion.fl.us

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.mariontax.com

• City Websites in Marion

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Belleview - https://www.belleviewfl.org/
  • Dunnellon - https://www.dunnellon.org/
  • McIntosh - https://townofmcintosh.org/
  • Ocala - https://www.ocalafl.org/
  • Reddick - http://www.townofreddick.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Only a few locations can guarantee the right combination of resources that are crucial to your business's success. Martin County is one of those locations. With a focus on talent and innovation, Martin County has emerged as a place where businesses can grow locally, and have success on a global scale. We are home to more recipients of Governor's Business Diversification Awards than any other county in Florida. These companies and others like them are a true testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that runs deep in this community.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Martin County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.martin.fl.us/

• Building and Permits
  The Building Department performs 6 major functions: permitting, plan review, inspections, contractors licensing and code enforcement. The Building Department is responsible to administer and enforce all building and licensing related laws along with local codes and regulations intended to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public and to provide the highest level of customer service by a fully-trained team dedicated to serving the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.martin.fl.us/building

• Business Development Board
  The team at the Business Development Board of Martin County understands the complicated demands of the site selection process and offers years of experience to help make your expansion or relocation project run smoothly. The BDBMC acts as a business advocate with many state and local organizations to eliminate barriers to your success. The combined expertise of our team provides the resources you need to make the most informed location decision with the least amount of your time and effort.

  
  Visit: http://www.yesmartinfl.com/

• Contractor Licensing
  The Licensing Division of the Martin County Building Department enforces Contractor compliance with State of Florida Statues and local County regulation. All Martin County Contractors are required to be Licensed and Insured.

  
  Visit: https://www.martin.fl.us/martin-county-services/contractors-licensing-applications

• Growth Management (Planning and Zoning)
  This department handles environmental planning and permitting, zoning requests and impact fees, and monitors proposed land development regulation changes.

  
  Visit: https://www.martin.fl.us/government/departments/growth-management-department

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.pa.martin.fl.us/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://martintaxcollector.com/

• City Websites in Martin

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Jupiter Island - https://townofjupiterisland.com/
  • Ocean Breeze - https://townofoceanbreeze.org/
  • Sewall's Point - https://sewallspoint.org/
  • Stuart - https://www.cityofstuart.us/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

With its dynamic business climate, multilingual workforce, low taxes and exceptional quality of life, Miami-Dade is a natural choice for start-ups, mid-market companies and Fortune 500 leaders in many industries.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Miami-Dade County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.miamidade.gov/

• Regulatory and Economic Resources
  Miami-Dade's one-stop shop for information about building, business, environment, licenses, permits, online services, planning and zoning.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/economy

• Business
  This website includes information about starting a business, international trade, consumer protection, incentives and doing business with the county.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/business

• Contractors and Building Trades
  Contractors and tradesmen working in Miami-Dade County are licensed by Miami-Dade County's Contractor Licensing Section. The Construction Trades Qualifying Board has authority over these types of licenses and scopes of licenses that are issued.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/licenses/contractors-licensing.asp

• Environment
  Miami-Dade County Environmental Resources Management implements monitoring, education, restoration, regulatory and land management programs to protect water quality, drinking water supply, air quality and natural resources that are vital to the health and well-being of all Miami-Dade County residents and visitors and the ecosystem.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/environment

• Licenses
  Miami-Dade County regulates many types of businesses, including contracting and the building trades, and for-hire transport companies. Other businesses are regulated to protect consumers, ranging from locksmiths to moving or towing companies. Businesses that handle pets are also regulated.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/licenses

• Permits
  Visit this website for building permits, plan reviews and inspections.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/permits

• Planning
  Miami-Dade County Planning provides services related to sound growth management, historic preservation, urban planning, sustainability planning, and transportation development through the Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) and related activities.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/planning

• Zoning
  The Development Services Division is the current planning branch of the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources. In addition to planning, the Development Services Division also reviews and evaluates zoning and land platting applications.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/pa

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: http://www8.miamidade.gov/global/finance/taxcollector/home.page

• City Websites in Miami-Dade

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population of over 100,000.

  • Aventura - https://www.cityofaventura.com/
  • Bal Harbour - https://www.balharbourfl.gov/
  • Bay Harbor Islands - https://www.bayharborislands-fl.gov/
  • Biscayne Park - https://www.biscayneparkfl.gov/
  • Coral Gables - https://www.coralgables.com/
  • Cutler Bay - https://www.cutlerbay-fl.gov/
  • Doral - https://www.cityofdoral.com/
  • El Portal - https://elportalvillage.com/
  • Florida City - https://www.floridacityfl.gov/
  • Golden Beach - https://www.goldenbeach.us/
  • Hialeah - https://www.hialeahfl.gov/
  • Hialeah Gardens - https://www.cityofhialeahgardens.com/
  • Homestead - https://www.cityofhomestead.com/
  • Indian Creek - https://www.indiancreekvillagefl.gov/
  • Key Biscayne - https://keybiscayne.fl.gov/
  • Medley - http://www.townofmedley.com/
  • Miami - https://www.miamigov.com/
  • Miami Beach - https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/
  • Miami Gardens- https://www.miamigardens-fl.gov/
  • Miami Lakes - https://www.miamilakes-fl.gov/
  • Miami Shores - https://www.miamishoresvillage.com/
  • Miami Springs - https://www.miamisprings-fl.gov/
  • North Bay Village - https://northbayvillage-fl.gov/
  • North Miami - https://www.northmiamifl.gov/
  • North Miami Beach - https://www.citynmb.com/
  • Opa-Locka - https://www.opalockafl.gov/
  • Palmetto Bay - https://www.palmettobay-fl.gov/
  • Pinecrest - https://www.pinecrest-fl.gov
  • South Miami - https://www.southmiamifl.gov/
  • Sunny Isles Beach - https://www.sibfl.net/
  • Surfside - https://www.townofsurfsidefl.gov//
  • Sweetwater - https://cityofsweetwater.fl.gov/
  • Virginia Gardens - https://virginiagardens-fl.gov/
  • West Miami - https://cityofwestmiamifl.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Monroe County is the southernmost county in Florida and the United States. It is made up of the Florida Keys and portions of the Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve. These parks are mostly uninhabited mainland areas. Most known are the Florida Keys with its string of islands connected by U.S Highway 1, which ends in Key West, 150 miles southwest of Miami.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Monroe County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/

• Building and Permitting
  The Building Department is responsible for administering and enforce all ordinances applicable to building, construction, blasting, and explosives as defined in the Monroe County Code. Building officials are charged with administering and ensuring compliance with building codes.They issue building and construction permits and certificates of occupancy and supervise blasting within the county.

  
  Visit: http://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/149/Building-and-Permitting

• Code Compliance
  The purpose of the Code Compliance Department is to promote, protect, and improve the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Monroe County and the environment by providing equitable, expeditious, and effective enforcement of all County Codes while establishing a working partnership with Monroe County neighborhoods.

  
  Visit: http://fl-monroecounty.civicplus.com/167/Code-Compliance

• Contractor Information, Forms and Applications
  Visit this webpage for information available to contractors through the Monroe County Building Department.

  
  Visit: http://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/162/Contractor-Information-Forms-Application

• Planning and Environmental Resources
  The Monroe County Planning & Environmental Resources Department is responsible for the administration of the adopted Monroe County Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations. The Department processes amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations. Additionally, the department reviews development proposals for compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations, including environmental compliance.

  
  Visit: http://fl-monroecounty.civicplus.com/178/Planning-Environmental-Resources

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: http://qpublic.net/fl/Monroe

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.monroetaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Monroe

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Islamorada - https://www.islamorada.fl.us/
  • Key Colony Beach - https://keycolonybeach.net/
  • Key Largo - https://www.keylargochamber.org/
  • Key West - https://www.cityofkeywest-fl.gov/
  • Layton - https://www.cityoflayton.com/
  • Marathon - https://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

When people first think of Nassau County, Amelia Island and our beautiful beaches come to mind. Look beyond our beaches and you’ll see the landscape of our county is as diverse as our residents and businesses. Nassau County is where tourism intersects with industry, our railways and highways link to over 60 million consumers and the Port of Fernandina unites businesses with the world. Nassau County is ideally positioned for new industry and expansion opportunities with a skilled military workforce, unsurpassed logistics network and over 17 million square feet of entitled heavy industrial and commercial space, ready to welcome you.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Nassau County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: http://www.nassaucountyfl.com/

• Nassau County Economic Development
  The Nassau County Economic Development Board (NCEDB) serves as the unified voice and single point-of-contact representing Nassau County, Florida as a desirable place to relocate a business or to grow and expand an existing business. Committed to the economic vitality of Nassau County, our staff strives to simplify the site selection process, serving as a one-stop-shop. We offer tailored, confidential services to businesses wishing to relocate, expand or launch a new venture in Nassau County. On the home front, we work with our existing businesses to access the resources they need to become more competitive.

  
  Visit: https://www.nassauflorida.com

• Building
  The Building Department provides professional certified services for the enforcement of the County's Codes related to land development and the State of Florida regulations relating to the health, safety and welfare of residents and visitors of Nassau County.

  
  Visit: https://www.nassaucountyfl.com/136/Building-Department

• Code Enforcement
  The primary functions of the Code Enforcement Department are to educate the public in code issues and to work with the citizens of our community. We are committed to professional code enforcement that is responsive to our citizens. In addition, officers privately enforce regulations as their case load allows

  
  Visit: https://www.nassaucountyfl.com/79/Code-Enforcement

• Permitting
  Visit this website for contractor forms, permitting forms, septic forms, plan review checklists and inspection checklists.

  
  Visit: https://www.nassaucountyfl.com/488/Online-Forms

• Planning and Economic Opportunity
  The Department of Planning and Economic Opportunity performs the daily operations associated with the implementation of the Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan and are the point of entry for site plan review and other applications for development orders

  
  Visit: https://www.nassaucountyfl.com/107/Planning-Economic-Opportunity

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.nassauflpa.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.nassautaxes.com

• City Websites in Nassau

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Fernandina Beach - https://www.fbfl.us/
  • Hilliard - https://www.townofhilliard.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Okaloosa County was formed by an act of the Florida Legislature passed on September 7, 1915 that combined portions of Santa Rosa and Walton Counties. Okaloosa is the 52nd county in the state, with its name being derived from the Choctaw language in that “oka” translates to “water” and “lusa” translates to “black”. Okaloosa County is committed to provide service to our customers in a friendly, effective and efficient manner.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Okaloosa County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/

• Building Inspection and Permit Fees
  Visit this webpage for:

  • Permit fees,
  • Plan Review fees,
  • Inspection fees,
  • Building contractor licensing fees,
  • Electrical contractor licensing fees, and
  • Other miscellaneous fees.

  Visit: http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/gm/building/fees

• Code Enforcement
  The Code Enforcement Division enforces all Okaloosa County adopted rules and regulations as set forth in the Code of Ordinances for the unincorporated areas of the county ranging from land development and zoning regulations to rules governing such things as noise, junk, debris, and other similar nuisances to include building codes.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/gm/code-enforcement

• Economic Development
  The Economic Development Council of Okaloosa County is the community's primary organization tasked with improving the area's economy through the attraction and retention of new, diversified employment opportunities and capital investments. We were constituted in 1989, and serve as a non-profit public/private partnership.

  
  Visit: https://www.florida-edc.org/

• Growth Management (Planning and Zoning)
  Our Mission is to successfully and consistently implement the Okaloosa County Comprehensive Plan, Okaloosa County Land Development Code, the Building Codes, and other Board of County Commissioners goals. This includes:

  • Implementing the Board's policies and objectives through review of applications for development and building permits.
  • Ensuring orderly growth and development.
  • Providing inspections and oversight to the building industry and providing code enforcement.
  • Administering the Community Development Block Grant Program, and other State and Federal grant programs.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/gm/home

• Licensing
  The purpose of the Licensing Division is to ensure that contractors are properly licensed and registered for specific trades. Trades that require licensing are listed on this webpage.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/gm/licensing

• Permitting
  Visit this webpage for various building permits.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/gm/building/permitting

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://okaloosapa.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.okaloosatax.com

• City Websites in Okaloosa

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Cinco Bayou - http://cincobayou.com
  • Crestview - http://www.cityofcrestview.org/
  • Destin - https://www.cityofdestin.com/
  • Fort Walton Beach - https://www.fwb.org/
  • Laurel Hill
  • Mary Esther - https://www.cityofmaryesther.com/
  • Niceville - https://cityofniceville.org/
  • Shalimar - http://www.shalimarflorida.org
  • Valparaiso - https://www.valp.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Okeechobee County is a Community with a small town environment that fosters a desirable place to live, work and play. Okeechobee County will provide responsive government services to its citizens in a well-managed, cost effective, fiscally sound, policy driven manner. All services provided shall benefit the health, safety and welfare of the community.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Okeechobee County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.co.okeechobee.fl.us

• Doing Business
  Visit this website for links to information about conducting business in Okeechobee County.

  
  Visit: https://www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/doing-business

• Building and Permitting
  Visit this website for information regarding building permits and inspections.

  
  >Visit: https://www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/departments/community-development/building-department

• Business License
  Visit this website for information regarding obtaining a business tax receipt to operate a business in Okeechobee County.

  
  Visit: https://www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/doing-business/business-licenses-county

• Code Enforcement
  Code Enforcement is responsible for ensuring public safety through administration and enforcement of the Okeechobee County Code of Ordinances. Code Enforcement is an integral part of maintaining a safe and economically viable community. The Department addresses citizen complaints, performs site investigations and inspections, and brings non-compliant properties into compliance through voluntary efforts of the property owners or a Special Magistrate process if necessary.

  
  Visit: https://www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/departments/community-development/code-enforcement

• Economic Development
  The Okeechobee Main Street program s designed to improve all aspects of the Okeechobee downtown district, producing both tangible and intangible benefits. Improving economic management, strengthening public participation, and making downtown a fun place to visit are as critical to Okeechobee's future as recruiting new businesses, rehabilitating buildings, and expanding parking. Building on downtown's inherent assets - rich architecture, personal service, arts & culture, traditional values and most of all, a sense of place.

  
  >Visit: https://www.okeechobeemainstreet.org

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning and Zoning Department provides current and long range planning, zoning, mapping, addressing and flood plain management functions for Okeechobee County.

  
  Visit: https://www.co.okeechobee.fl.us/departments/community-development/planning-and-zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: http://www.okeechobeepa.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.okeechobeecountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Okeechobee

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Okeechobee - https://www.cityofokeechobee.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Orange County’s dynamic economy includes our strong tourism sector, industries specializing in advanced computer simulation and a thriving life science research hub. Lockheed Martin, Darden Restaurants, Siemens Energy, ADP, CVS Health’s Caremark and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions are just a few that call Central Florida home.

We have one of the top 10 research parks in the country, which serves as the epicenter of the modeling, simulation & training (MS&T) industry and fosters collaboration, cooperation and partnership between academia, industry and government. The metro Orlando/Orange County area is one of two communities in the world with a medical city, including a state of the art VA medical center.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

Orange County Government

• Orange County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/

• Businesses
  Visit this webpage for links to resources for new and existing businesses in Orange County.

  
  Visit: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/Business.aspx

• Economic Development
  The future of Orange County is filled with optimism as we continue to drive smart economic growth as one of the highest performing regions in Florida, the nation, and around the world. Our skilled workforce, excellent quality of life, new cutting-edge Medical City and vast concentration of locally headquartered Fortune 500 companies makes us the best place to live, work, and play.

  
  Visit: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/EconomicDevelopment.aspx

• Permits and Licenses
  Visit this webpage for links to required permits and licenses in Orange County.

  
  Visit: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/?tabid=368

• Planning and Development
  Visit this webpage for information about comprehensive planning, development review, permitting, environmental and special area planning in Orange County.

  
  Visit: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/?tabid=107

Business and Economic Assistance

• Central Florida Business Incubation Program
  Since 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has been helping startup companies develop into financially stable, high impact businesses by providing the tools, training, and infrastructure that help facilitate smarter, faster growth.

  
  Visit: https://incubator.ucf.edu/

• Central Florida Research Park
  The Central Florida Research Park is a campus-like environment for business, located adjacent to the University of Central Florida. Businesses that desire a “university relationship” can purchase land in the Research Park on which to construct a facility or can lease space for office, office/lab or light manufacturing uses.

  
  Visit: http://cfrp.org/

• National Entrepreneur Center
  Founded in 2003, through the collaborative efforts of Walt Disney World, Orange County Government and The University of Central Florida, this “shared facility” and collaborative approach to small business development has attracted national attention for its financial efficiencies and the ability to leverage the resources and skills of each resident organization. Additionally, the center provides easy access to these business assistance organizations for local entrepreneurs. Since inception, the resident organizations have trained and counseled Central Florida businesses in record numbers, while creating nationally recognized business development programs.

  
  Visit: https://www.nationalec.org/

• Orlando Economic Partnership
  While Orlando is renowned worldwide for its tropical climate and relaxed lifestyle, the region also is one of the top 10 locations in the country for business. From corporate headquarters to regional distribution centers, from product manufacturing to high tech research, the region of Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Lake counties and the City of Orlando spans a dynamic economic spectrum.

  
  Visit: https://www.orlandoedc.com/

Other Local Resources

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://ocpaweb.ocpafl.org/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.octaxcol.com

• City Websites in Orange

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population over 100,000.

  • Apopka - https://www.apopka.net/
  • Belle Isle - https://www.cityofbelleislefl.org
  • Eatonville - http://www.townofeatonville.org/
  • Edgewood - http://www.edgewood-fl.gov/
  • Lake Buena Vista - https://www.rcid.org/
  • Maitland - https://www.itsmymaitland.com/
  • Oakland - https://oaklandfl.gov/
  • Ocoee - https://www.ocoee.org/
  • Orlando - https://www.orlando.gov
  • Windermere - https://town.windermere.fl.us/
  • Winter Garden - http://www.cwgdn.com/
  • Winter Park - https://cityofwinterpark.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

As the fastest growing county in the Orlando metro area, and the 10th fastest growing in the nation, Greater Osceola is a major player in the region’s future. Population is projected to exceed 500,000 by 2040. Focused on diversified industry, Greater Osceola is a competitive location for growing and established food processing; information technology; advanced manufacturing; life sciences and allied health; and tourism, entertainment and recreation organizations.

As a region that welcomes more than 59 million visitors a year, Central Florida has perfected the art of getting to and from here. The region is home to two international airports, including Orlando International Airport, which is the third-largest origin and destination airport in the U.S.; two deep water ports; and extensive road and rail systems that connect here, in the heart of the nation’s third most populous state. SunRail, the region’s new commuter rail system, provides our workforce easy transit throughout Central Florida.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Osceola County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.osceola.org/

• Building, Licensing, Permitting
  The Building Office protects the health and safety of the public by administrating and enforcing various building codes and technical standards while preparing for the future growth of Osceola County. Planning to build in Osceola County? You are required to apply for a building permit as required by the Florida Building Code. Building permits are issued by the Building Office located on the 1st floor of our Administration Building.

  
  Visit: https://www.osceola.org/agencies-departments/community-development/offices/building-office

• Code Enforcement
  Code Enforcement’s mission is to protect public health, safety and welfare by ensuring compliance with County Codes, Land Use Regulations, and various Statutes. The standards set by our codes are designed to protect the community from substandard conditions. Enforcing these codes minimizes conditions that can contribute to the degradation of neighborhoods and property values.

  
  Visit: https://www.osceola.org/agencies-departments/community-development/offices/code-enforcement

• Contractor Licensing
  The Building Office offers a variety of categories for sponsoring to become state licensed as a Contractor or Journeyman. For information concerning Contractor Licensing, you may contact this office at 407-742-0200 or e-mail: contractorlicensing@osceola.org

  
  Visit: https://www.osceola.org/agencies-departments/community-development/building-office/licensing-services/contractor-licensing.stml

• Economic Development
  Greater Osceola works to strengthen the county’s economy by attracting, retaining and growing jobs in Osceola County. Working with like-minded organizations, Greater Osceola offers services and support for growing local and national businesses to find success in Greater Osceola. Focused on diversified industry, Greater Osceola is a competitive location for growing and established food processing; information technology; advanced manufacturing; life sciences and allied health; and tourism, entertainment and recreation organizations.

  
  Visit: https://www.greaterosceola.com/

• Online Permit Center
  Visit this website for online permit applications and research for Osceola County's citizens, businesses and visitors.

  
  Visit: https://permits.osceola.org/CitizenAccess/Default.aspx

• Planning and Design
  The Planning and Design Office provides planning and community development services that guide the development of Osceola County. These services ensure the orderly growth and development of the County and that all land development is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.

  
  Visit: https://www.osceola.org/agencies-departments/community-development/offices/planning-office

• Zoning
  The Zoning office manages orderly growth and development through administration of the Osceola County Land Development Code. This ensures compliance with the Osceola County Comprehensive Plan and enforcement of various County codes and ordinances.

  
  Visit: https://www.osceola.org/agencies-departments/community-development/offices/zoning

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.property-appraiser.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://osceolataxcollector.org

• City Websites in Osceola

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Celebration - https://celebration.fl.us/
  • Harmony - http://harmonyfl.com/
  • Kissimmee - https://www.kissimmee.org
  • Saint Cloud - https://www.stcloud.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

The current economic indicators for Palm Beach County point to a vibrant and healthy economy -- one that is growing and thriving. Encompassing more than 2,000 square miles, Palm Beach County is one of the largest in the eastern United States and the third-largest in Florida.

Of 3,100 counties nationwide, Palm Beach County is one of a select group of only 22 to earn the highest possible bond rating, AAA, by all three of the major rating agencies, Moody's Investors Services, Fitch, and Standard & Poor's. Palm Beach County is also the only county in Florida to have earned this designation.

Fitch described Palm Beach County as one of the nation's wealthiest counties, with per capita personal income levels nearly 50% higher than state and national averages. The ratings firm said its grade reflects Palm Beach County's vital and diversifying economic base, sound financial position, and moderate debt levels. As for its economic base, Fitch noted our strengths in luxury tourism, technology manufacturing, and agriculture.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

Palm Beach County Government

• Palm Beach County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://discover.pbcgov.org

• Business Services
  Visit this webpage for links to helpful business resources.

  
  Visit: https://discover.pbcgov.org/Pages/Business-Services.aspx

• Contractors Certification
  The Contractors Certification Division promotes a safe and healthy community environment through a contractor certification regulation and enforcement program, thereby minimizing losses to citizens by unlawful contractor activities.

  
  Visit: https://discover.pbcgov.org/pzb/contractors/Pages/default.aspx

• Licenses and Registrations
  Visit this webpage to apply for a license, registration or permit and pay fees.

  
  Visit: https://discover.pbcgov.org/Pages/Online-Services.aspx

• Planning, Zoning and Building
  Visit this webpage for links to the building division, code enforcement, contractor certification, planning and zoning.

  
  Visit: https://discover.pbcgov.org/pzb/Pages/default.aspx

Economic Development

• Business Development Board
  The Business Development Board is a private, not-for-profit corporation. Founded in 1982 by Chambers of Commerce, the Economic Council, and other business leaders, the Business Development Board is designated by the State of Florida and Palm Beach County Commission as Palm Beach County's official economic development organization.

  
  We work to attract and retain business investment through corporate relocations, expansions, and international trade; and provide marketing support and business networking services through a paid membership organization that partially funds our economic development services.

  
  Visit: https://www.bdb.org

• Economic Council of Palm Beach County
  The Economic Council of Palm Beach County’s mission is to create an environment in Palm Beach County that helps business prosper. To achieve this goal, the Economic Council promotes prudent economic growth; advocates for the quality of life in Palm Beach County; encourages the principles of good government and good citizenship; takes an active interest in the civic, cultural and social welfare of the county and the state; provides a forum for the open discussion of matters of public interest; and seeks to inspire service-minded citizens to serve their community.

  
  Visit: https://www.economiccouncilpbc.org/

Other Local Resources

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.pbcgov.org/papa/index.htm

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.pbctax.com

• City Websites in Palm Beach

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.Bolded city names have a population over 100,000.

  • Atlantis - https://www.atlantisfl.gov/
  • Belle Glade - https://www.bellegladegov.com/
  • Boca Raton - https://www.myboca.us/
  • Boynton Beach - https://www.boynton-beach.org/
  • Briny Breezes - https://www.townofbrinybreezes-fl.com/
  
  
  • Cloud Lake - no website listed
  • Delray Beach - https://www.delraybeachfl.gov/
  • Glen Ridge - no website listed
  • Golf - https://www.villageofgolf.org/
  • Greenacres - https://greenacresfl.gov/
  
  
  • Gulf Stream - https://www.gulf-stream.org/
  • Haverhill - https://www.townofhaverhill-fl.gov/
  • Highland Beach - https://highlandbeach.us/
  • Hypoluxo - https://www.hypoluxo.org/
  • Juno Beach - https://www.juno-beach.fl.us/
  
  
  • Jupiter - https://www.jupiter.fl.us/
  • Jupiter Inlet Colony - http://www.jupiterinletcolony.org/
  • Lake Clarke Shores - https://www.townoflcs.com/
  • Lake Park - https://www.lakeparkflorida.gov/
  • Lake Worth - https://www.lakeworthbeachfl.gov/
  
  
  • Lantana - https://www.lantana.org/
  • Loxahatchee Groves - https://www.loxahatcheegrovesfl.gov/
  • Manalapan - https://www.manalapan.org/
  • Mangonia Park - http://www.townofmangoniapark.com/
  • North Palm Beach - https://www.village-npb.org/
  
  
  • Ocean Ridge - https://www.oceanridgeflorida.com/
  • Pahokee - https://www.cityofpahokee.com
  • Palm Beach - https://www.townofpalmbeach.com/
  • Palm Beach Gardens - https://www.pbgfl.com/
  • Palm Beach Shores - http://www.palmbeachshoresfl.us/
  
  
  • Palm Springs - https://www.vpsfl.org/
  • Riviera Beach - https://www.rivierabch.com/
  • Royal Palm Beach - https://www.royalpalmbeach.com/
  • South Bay - https://www.southbaycity.com/
  • South Palm Beach - https://www.southpalmbeach.com/
  
  
  • Tequesta - https://www.tequesta.org/
  • Wellington - https://www.wellingtonfl.gov/
  • West Palm Beach - https://wpb.org
  • Westlake - https://www.westlakegov.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Tampa Bay and Pasco County have emerged as the preferred destination for corporate shared services operations – a claim easily backed up by the Fortune 500, 100 and 50 companies in our area. Key reasons to join us:

Access to talent – there are over 64,000 four-year college students in our area in addition to our other workforce training and development programs.
Tampa International Airport – non-stop access to nearly 70 major North American cities, competitive fares, and within 30 minutes drive time to Pasco.
Attitude toward business – the local governments and business leaders have a strong interest in supporting the growth of all businesses in the Tampa Bay area.
Competitive operating costs -
• Pay 15-20%+ < New York City for labor
• Pay 50-70% < New York City for real estate

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Pasco County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.pascocountyfl.net/

• Business Incentives
  Visit this webpage for links to various incentive programs offered by Pasco County and the State of Florida.

  
  Visit: https://www.pascocountyfl.net/1475/Business-Incentives

• Contractor Licensing
  Our mission is to serve our constituents by ensuring all contractors that provide a service for our citizens in our community are properly licensed and insured. We will accomplish this by providing excellent service, streamlining business processes, implementing innovative technologies, and proactively engaging customers while enforcing all applicable Pasco County regulations.

  
  Visit: https://www.pascocountyfl.net/762/Contractor-Licensing

• Doing Business in Pasco
  Visit this webpage for links to helpful information for starting a business in Pasco County.

  
  Visit: https://www.pascocountyfl.net/1381/Starting-a-Business

• Economic Development Tools
  Visit this webpage for links to market research, prime business locations, and small business resources.

  
  Visit: https://www.pascocountyfl.net/1412/Economic-Development-Tools

• One Stop Center
  Visit this webpage for links to information regarding business registration, licenses, permits, inspections, site development, zoning and contractor licensing.

  
  Visit: https://www.pascocountyfl.net/1454/One-Stop-Center

• Pasco County Economic Development Council
  Formed in 1987, the Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is the lead economic development organization dedicated to the overall growth and prosperity of Pasco County through the development of a sustainable and diversified economy. Pasco EDC is a private, non-profit organization that promotes countywide economic development and continues to be a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County. Pasco EDC is committed to positive growth to make Pasco County a great place to live and work. You won't find a more supportive county in which to do business.

  
  Visit: https://pascoedc.com/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.pascopa.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: http://www.pascotaxes.com

• City Websites in Pasco

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Dade City - https://www.dadecityfl.com/
  • New Port Richey - https://www.cityofnewportrichey.org/
  • Port Richey - https://cityofportrichey.com/
  • Saint Leo - https://www.townofstleo.org
  • San Antonio - https://www.sanantonioflorida.org/
  • Zephyrhills - https://www.ci.zephyrhills.fl.us/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Anchored by the urban markets of Clearwater and St. Petersburg, Pinellas has the second largest base of manufacturing employment in Florida. Fortune 500 technology manufacturers Jabil Circuit and Tech Data are headquartered here. Pinellas has diverse, yet symbiotic, industry clusters, including aviation/aerospace; defense/national security; medical technologies; business and financial services; and information technology. An extensive network of suppliers, service-providers and business associations support operations in these sectors. Relocating businesses can move to Pinellas and expect to begin growing immediately. Pinellas encourages innovation, and with industry giants Home Shopping Network (HSNi), Nielsen, ValPak and Catalina Marketing, it is rapidly becoming Florida’s hub for big data. Through relationships with major universities and high-tech institutes, Pinellas has become a center for research and development in marine science, electronic instruments, medical devices, sensors, nanotechnology and health care. The county is home to numerous business accelerators, like the Tampa Bay Innovation Center, TEC Garage, the Gazelle Lab and Clearwater's SPARK, which are committed to nurturing and building new ventures. Notable Employers: Home Shopping Network (HSNi), Nielsen Media Research, Jabil Circuit, Raymond James Financial, Tech Data, Honeywell, Raytheon, Lockheed-Martin, ConMed Linvatec, TransAmerica and Bausch & Lomb.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Pinellas County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: http://www.pinellascounty.org/

• Building Services
  Building Services provides building permits, building inspections, and code reference for unincorporated Pinellas County.

  
  Visit: http://www.pinellascounty.org/build/default.htm

• Code Enforcement
  Pinellas County Code Enforcement is responsible for enforcing codes in the unincorporated areas of the county. Residents residing in one of the 24 municipalities should contact their town or city directly for assistance.

  
  Visit: http://www.pinellascounty.org/code-enforcement/default.htm

• Contractor Licensing
  The Contractor Licensing Department oversees day-to-day administration, records maintenance, and contractor license investigations in Pinellas County. The department performs the operational function of the Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board (PCCLB). The PCCLB, a dependent agency to the Board of County Commissioners, regulates the construction and home improvement industry through uniform contractor competency licensing, code adoption and code interpretations in Pinellas County.

  
  Visit: http://www.pinellascounty.org/contractorlicensing/default.htm

• Economic Development
  Pinellas County Economic Development (PCED) works with existing businesses to encourage expansion and seeks to attract new companies with high-wage careers to Central Florida's Gulf Coast. Through investment tools, professional courses and business counseling sessions, trade missions to open new markets, as well as local, regional and statewide partnerships, PCED fosters a pro-business climate in Pinellas County, Florida.

  
  Visit: https://www.pced.org/

• Permits, Codes and Fees
  Apply for building permits in unincorporated county neighborhoods, tree removal and review county codes.

  
  Visit: http://www.pinellascounty.org/resident/codes.htm

• Zoning and Land Use
  Visit this webpage for information regarding future land use changes, zoning changes, and development agreements.

  
  Visit: http://www.pinellascounty.org/plan/landuse_zoning.htm

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.pcpao.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://taxcollect.com

• City Websites in Pinellas

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population over 100,000.

  • Belleair - https://www.townofbelleair.com/
  • Belleair Beach - https://www.cityofbelleairbeach.com/
  • Belleair Bluffs - https://www.belleairbluffs.org/
  • Belleair Shore - https://belleairshore.com/
  • Clearwater - https://www.myclearwater.com/
  • Dunedin - https://www.dunedingov.com/
  • Gulfport - https://mygulfport.us/
  • Indian Rocks Beach - http://www.indian-rocks-beach.com//
  • Indian Shores - https://www.myindianshores.com/
  • Kenneth City - https://www.kennethcityfl.org/
  • Largo - https://www.largo.com/
  • Madeira Beach - https://madeirabeachfl.gov/
  • North Redington Beach - https://townofnorthredingtonbeach.com/
  • Oldsmar - https://www.myoldsmar.com/
  • Pinellas Park - https://www.pinellas-park.com/
  • Redington Beach - https://www.townofredingtonbeach.com/
  • Redington Shores - https://townofredingtonshores.com/
  • Safety Harbor - https://www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/
  • Saint Pete Beach - https://www.stpetebeach.org/
  • Saint Petersburg - http://www.stpete.org/
  • Seminole - https://www.myseminole.com/
  • South Pasadena - http://mysouthpasadena.com/
  • Tarpon Springs - https://www.ctsfl.us/
  • Treasure Island - https://www.mytreasureisland.org/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Polk County’s central location in Florida makes it the perfect home for any business that wants instant access to the more than 9 million residents who reside within a 100-mile radius of its boundaries. The citrus, cattle, agriculture, and the phosphate industries still play vital roles in the local economy. But Polk County is also at the center of a logistics and technological boom that is attracting companies from all over the world. The county’s location between both the Tampa and Orlando metropolitan areas has aided in the development and growth of the area. Residents and visitors alike are drawn to the unique character of the county’s numerous heritage sites and cultural venues, stunning natural landscapes, and many outdoor activities, making Polk the heart of central Florida. Polk, with a population topping 700,000 residents, offers a pro-business environment that is ideal to developing workforce talent and has a low operating cost.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Polk County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.polk-county.net/

• Accela - Polk County's Online Services
  Visit this webpage for online submittal or initiation of permit applications or projects.

  
  Visit: https://polk-county.net/accela-info

Building Division

• Local Contractor's License
  A contractor's license may be required of a person or company that performs construction, alteration, enlargement, repairs, and demolitions of buildings, structures or appurtenances connected to such buildings or structures. qualified contractor may be licensed by the State of Florida through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations or he or she may be issued a local competency card by a specific jurisdiction. A state-issued license allows the contractor to practice according to his or her license type throughout the state. A contractor with a local competency card may only practice in the jurisdiction where the competency card was issued or any other jurisdiction that honors the competency card through reciprocity.

  
  To apply for a local competency card with Polk County, an applicant must submit an application to the Polk County Building Division. If the applicant meets the criteria, he or she can sit for the required business law and trade exam(s) and earn a score of 75 percent or higher. With a passing score, the applicant must also submit a current local business tax receipt, Workers Compensation Insurance Certificate, General Liability Insurance Certificate, as well a surety bond in the amount of $5,000.
  
  For more information on the qualification criteria for a local competency card, please review the Certificate of Competency by Exam requirements found at https://www.polk-county.net/building/building-forms. You may also contact the Contractor Licensing staff at contractorlicensing@polk-county.net or 863-534-6530.

  
  Visit: https://www.polk-county.net/building

Economic Development

• Central Florida Development Council
  The Central Florida Development Council (CFDC) is Polk County’s Economic Development Partnership as designated by the Polk County Board of County Commissioners. Originally incorporated in 1986, The CFDC became a newly refreshed private not-for-profit organization October 1, 2015 through a partnership with the Polk County Board of County Commissioners and the private sector business community.

  
  The mission of the CFDC is to grow an economy based on high-skill, high-wage sustainable businesses. We focus on domestic and international business recruitment and expansion, business advocacy, facilitating collaborative partnerships and advancing strategic priorities in Central Florida’s Polk County.

  
  Visit: https://www.cfdc.org/

• Economic Development Impact Fee Mitigation Agreement
  Qualified Target Industries: Agribusiness & Agritechnology; Aviation and Aerospace; Business Services; Life Sciences and Medial Services; Logistics, Supply Chain, and Distribution; Manufacturing; and Research, Technology & Creative Industries.

  
  Polk County has created an economic development Impact Fee mitigation program for certain Qualified Target Industry Businesses or Owners to mitigate any real or perceived disadvantage occurring from the imposition of impact fees. To be eligible, the Qualified Target Industry Business must meet certain criteria related to job creation with target salary levels or minimum capital investments. A business determined to be eligible to receive the economic development impact fee mitigation amounts up to 50% of the total impact fees determined, in part, by number of jobs created, average wage and/or total capital investment. A business seeking this impact fee mitigation should file application through the Central Florida Economic Development Council, along with an administrative review fee of $500. If the application meets all of the qualification criteria, a proposed mitigation agreement will be presented to the Board of County Commissioners for consideration.
  
  For more information about the criteria or application process, please contact the Central Florida Economic Development Council at 863-937-4430.

  
  Visit: https://www.cfdc.org/startexpand/incentives-taxes/

Office of Planning and Development

• Alcoholic Beverage License
  Local Alcoholic Beverage Licenses may be required for uses involving the sale of malt and/or alcoholic beverages – depending on 1) the type and percent by weight of alcoholic content; 2) whether the alcoholic beverages will be consumed on site or not; and 3) the distance from an established religious institution or public and private school located outside of a commercial land use district. These criteria can be found in Section 224, Chapter 2, Alcohol Sales, of the Land Development Code. In addition, alcoholic beverage sales for consumption on site can be permitted as an accessory use associated with a hotel and motel; however, the alcohol sales must be less than 50 percent of gross revenue.

  
  Refer to Chapter 2 of the Polk County Land Development Code, specifically sections 206.I and 224. For more information, please contact the Planner on Call at planneroncall@polk-county.net or 863-534-6084. Timeline: Requests not involving an alcoholic distance variance are typically reviewed in 5- 7 days. Requests involving an alcoholic distance variance, require a public hearing before the Land Use Hearing Officer. The public hearing is typically held two months from the application deadline and the Land Use Hearing Officer typically renders his or her decision 15 days following the public hearing date.
  
  

  
  Visit: https://www.polk-county.net/land-development/land-development-code

• Local Business Tax Receipt (formerly referred to as an Occupational License Tax Receipt)
  The Local Business Tax Receipt (formerly referred to as an occupational license tax receipt) represents that the Local County Business Tax Account holder may do business in Polk County. Holding a Local Business Tax receipt is for the privilege of doing business in Polk County and does not convey an acknowledgement of competency in any business occupation, trade, practice, or activity. The County Local Business Tax Receipt must be renewed annually.

  
  The application for the Business Tax Receipt is available online and can be returned by mail or to the Tax Collector’s office, along with the applicable fees. For information regarding local business taxes, please visit https://www.polktaxes.com/services/local-business-taxes/.
  
  Polk County provides for some exemptions regarding County Local Business Tax requirements. For more information about exemptions and other business tax advisories, please visit https://www.polktaxes.com/services/local-business-advisories/. Businesses located within a municipality may also be subject to a municipal business tax. Check with the applicable municipal government for more information.

  
  Visit: https://www.polk-county.net/land-development/land-development-code

• Zoning and Land Use Approvals
  The Office of Planning and Development (OPD) is the place to start to find out if a business can be conducted from proposed location and what is required to construct new facilities or use existing ones. Land use approvals include Future Land Use changes, planned developments and conditional uses, site development reviews, variances, waivers, and building permits.

  
  One of the best places to start when you have selected a potential location for a business is to contact the Planner on Call to find out what land use approvals may be required. They can be reached at PlanneronCall@polk-county.net or 863-534-6084.
  
  We recommend always confirming the land use requirements before buying or leasing property for a business. You might even consider requesting a Pre-Application meeting to get feedback from the Development Review Committee. Timeframes: Once you have found a location for your business, it may require land use approvals including a Future Land Use Map amendment, conditional use, variance, site plan review, and/or building permits. Please consult with the planner on call to identify the range of approvals that may be required to determine an estimated timeframe for your project.

  
  Visit: https://www.polk-county.net/planning-and-development

Procurement Division

• Vendor Registration Licensing
  Vendors that are interested in providing products and/or services to Polk County are required to register so that you will be aware of upcoming business opportunities.

  
  Vendors can register through a link on Procurement’s website. All suppliers providing products and/or services to the county must provide a completed W-9 form to procurement@polk-county.net. To download the form or get more information, visit the Procurement Division’s Vendor Registration webpage at https://www.polk-county.net/procurement/vendor-registration.
  
  If you would like to meet with a procurement professional who can answer questions regarding current and future bid and quote opportunities, you can sign up for “How to do Business with Polk County” training sessions. The training explains the bidding process from start to finish and is offered on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Please visit https://www.polk-county.net/procurement/vendor-training to reserve your seat.

  
  Visit: https://www.polk-county.net/planning-and-development

Other Local Resources

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.polkpa.org/

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.polktaxes.com/

• City Websites in Polk

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information. Bolded city names have a population over 100,000.

  • Auburndale - http://www.auburndalefl.com/
  • Bartow - http://www.cityofbartow.net/
  • Davenport - https://www.mydavenport.org/
  • Dundee - https://townofdundee.com/
  • Eagle Lake - https://www.eaglelake-fla.com/
  • Fort Meade - https://www.cityoffortmeade.com
  • Frostproof - https://www.cityoffrostproof.com/
  • Haines City - https://hainescity.com/
  • Highland Park - https://www.highlandpark-fl.org/
  • Hillcrest Heights - https://townofhillcrestheights.com
  • Lake Alfred - https://mylakealfred.com
  • Lake Hamilton - https://www.townoflakehamilton.com
  • Lake Wales - https://www.lakewalesfl.gov/
  • Lakeland - https://www.lakelandgov.net/
  • Mulberry - https://www.cityofmulberryfl.org/
  • Polk City - https://mypolkcity.org/
  • Winter Haven - https://www.mywinterhaven.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

Putnam County is located in the northeastern region of Florida, just to the south of Jacksonville, which is Florida’s largest municipality by population and size. Palatka, the County Seat is located on the St. Johns River, one of the few rivers in the world that actually flows north. The river and its tributaries flow through many of Putnam’s communities. We are located within two hours driving distance to all major attractions in central Florida, international airports and Florida’s beautiful beaches.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Putnam County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://main.putnam-fl.com/

• Building, Permits and Inspections
  The Putnam County Building Department mission is to serve customers with professionalism and efficiency through permitting, inspections and licensing to ensure the health, safety and welfare of our community.

  
  Visit: https://main.putnam-fl.com/?page_id=138

• Code Enforcement
  Visit this webpage for information regarding code enforcement and filing complaints in Putnam County.

  
  Visit: https://main.putnam-fl.com/?page_id=149

• Economic Development
  The Putnam County Economic Development Council (PCEDC) is a public / private non-profit organization that works to broaden the economic base and create new economic opportunities for Putnam County area residents. The PEDC is governed by a member steering committee, comprised of government officials and business leaders.

  
  Visit: https://www.putnamcountychamber.com/

• North Florida Economic Development Partnership

  North Central Florida is simply the premier region in the Southeast where companies and investors, both foreign and domestic, can achieve maximum success related to their immediate and long-term business vision and objectives. The region’s vast amount of undeveloped and affordable land and the abundance of excellent and accessible transportation infrastructure present a range of robust and creative options for maximizing a company’s or investor’s Return on Investment (ROI) and their ability to compete globally.
  
  This infrastructure includes Interstates 10 and 75, numerous four-lane highways, multiple rail facilities, accessible international, regional and local airports, and multiple seaports including the Port of Jacksonville. The 15-county region, covering over 9,100 square miles provides unlimited opportunity for a diversity of industries seeking to locate or expand their business regardless of scale and size.
  
  The counties comprising the region include Baker, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Putnam, Suwannee, Taylor, and Union counties.

  
  Visit: https://nflp.org/

• Online Services
  Visit this webpage for online submittal of permit applications.

  
  Visit: https://permits.putnam-fl.com/main.php

• Planning and Zoning
  The Planning and Zoning Division is here to assist the public through the development process to promote compliance with the Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan. The Division’s staff serves an advisory role to the Board of County Commissioners, Planning Commission, and Zoning Board of Adjustment.

  
  Visit: https://main.putnam-fl.com/?page_id=129

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://pa.putnam-fl.com

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: https://www.putnamcountytaxcollector.com

• City Websites in Putnam

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Crescent City - https://www.crescentcity-fl.com/
  • Interlachen - https://www.interlachen-fl.gov/
  • Palatka - https://palatka-fl.gov/
  • Pomona Park - https://www.pomonapark.com/
  • Welaka - https://www.welaka-fl.gov/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

St. Johns County, in northeast Florida, is a highly-desirable, amenity-rich location of choice for starting, relocating, or expanding your business. Bordered by the scenic Atlantic Ocean and St. Johns River, St. Johns County embraces its historic heritage and uniquely diverse communities such as the City of St. Augustine — the Nation's Oldest City; St. Augustine Beach, Ponte Vedra, and Hastings — the Potato Capital of Florida; which have attracted visitors for centuries. Capitalizing on its global appeal, St. Johns County is poised for economic growth through its strategic location, favorable climate, local economic development incentives, and outstanding community services.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• St. Johns County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us

Building Services Division

• Contractor Licensing Application
  Contractors must be licensed before advertising, bidding or performing any work in St. Johns County. The license types include Class I, Class II, Class III and Journeyman. The website provides the application and procedures for each type of license.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us/ContractorLicensing/guidelines.aspx

Economic Development

• St. Johns County Economic Development Office
  Economic development is the number one priority of our Board of County Commissioners. The Board shares a unified commitment to attract new business development, to expand and diversify the tax base, and to create jobs for our local residents.

  
  The St. Johns County Economic Development Office is the county's designated official economic development partner organization with Enterprise Florida. The Department provides assistance to businesses interested in locating and expanding into the County, including site selection, incentive negotiation, and other due-diligence requests. They manage the local ED incentive program and work with Enterprise Florida to facilitate local projects accessing state-level incentive tools.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us/EconomicDevelopment/index.aspx

• Economic Development Council
  The Economic Development Council works to promote St. Johns County as an ideal business location and to encourage businesses, both large and small, to expand and relocate within St. Johns County. EDC activities and events are designed to support the success of both new and existing businesses in St. Johns County. We offer resources to businesses and support start-up ventures by providing information and connectivity to a variety of local resources.

  
  Visit: http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us/EconomicDevelopment/index.aspx

Planning and Zoning Division within the Growth Management Department of St. Johns County

• Approval for Home Office, Rural Home Industry or All Other Non-Residential Uses
  In order to ensure the location of a business is within an appropriate zoning district, the Growth Management Department will review such locations prior to the issuance of a Business Tax Receipt by the St. Johns County Tax Collector Office. View Article II of the Land Development Code for information on the zoning districts and special uses within St. Johns County at www.sjcfl.us/LongRangePlanning/media/LDC/ArticleII.pdf. Contact Planning and Zoning prior to finalizing any leases, etc. to be certain the intended business is appropriate for the location.

  
  Land Development Code Approval: www.sjcfl.us/DevelopmentReview/media/DRM/Section%2027.0%20Occupation%20License.pdf
  
  Application/Affidavit for Certificate for Home Office, Rural Home Industry or Business Office:
  www.sjcfl.us/DevelopmentReview/media/DRM/Section%2027.0.1%20Business-Home%20Office.pdf
  
  Additional paperwork besides the application may need to be submitted along with the application, which is outlined in the Land Development Code Approval under Section 27.02 Application.

  
  Visit: http://www.sjcfl.us/DevelopmentReview/media/DRM/Section%2027.0%20Occupation%20License.pdf

Tax Collector

• Business Tax Receipt
  Payment of the local business tax is required to conduct business in St. Johns County. It is due annually by Oct. 1, coinciding with the beginning of the fiscal year, ending on Sept. 30. Approval from the Planning and Zoning Division within the Growth Management Department of St. Johns County will need to occur first before the St. Johns County Tax Collector office will issue a business tax receipt.

  
  Also, if the business is located within the City of St. Augustine or the City of St. Augustine Beach, then a municipal receipt will need to be obtained from the corresponding entity before the St. Johns County Tax Collector office will issue a business tax receipt.
  
  For additional information pertaining to the City of St. Augustine, visit https://www.citystaug.com/376/Permits-Licenses or call 904-209-4324.
  
  For additional information pertaining to the City of St. Augustine Beach, visit https://www.staugbch.com/citymanager/page/business-tax-receipts or call 904-471-2122.

  
  Visit: http://www.sjctax.us/BusinessTaxFAQ.aspx

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: http://www.sjctax.us/index.aspx

Other Local Resources

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.sjcpa.us/

• City Websites in St. Johns

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Hastings - no website listed
  • Marineland - no website listed
  • St. Augustine - https://citystaug.com/
  • St. Augustine Beach - https://www.staugbch.com/

COUNTY INTRODUCTION

With certified sites, modern infrastructure and a trained, educated and experienced workforce, Santa Rosa County offers industries an opportunity to maximize their ROI in a community dedicated to providing the best to residents and businesses. From our expanding tourism, vibrant farming community, growing industrial presence, our strong military ties, to our top-notch schools, it is no surprise that Santa Rosa County is one of the fastest growing counties in the United States. Located in the western tip of the Florida Panhandle, makes large cities such as Houston, Nashville and Orlando easily accessible.

LOCAL BUSINESS RESOURCES

• Santa Rosa County Homepage
  A good place to start any search for information.

  
  Visit: https://www.santarosa.fl.gov/

• Business Receipt/License
  A local business tax receipt is issued by the Santa Rosa Tax Collector for operating any business in Santa Rosa County. Anyone that provides merchandise or services to the public, even one-person companies or a home-based business must obtain a business tax receipt to operate.

  
  In Santa Rosa County, a business located within a city or town limit requires both a municipal license and a county license to operate. If the nature of a business takes employees inside a city limit to conduct business even though the business establishment is in the county, it may be necessary to obtain a city license also.

  
  Visit: http://srctc.com/business-tax/santa-rosa-qualifications/

• Contractor Licensing
  The purpose of the Licensing Division is to ensure that contractors are properly licensed and registered for specific trades. State Certified Contractors are not issued a Competency Card but are required to register their license in Santa Rosa County to contract work.

  
  Visit: https://www.santarosa.fl.gov/156/Contractor-Licensing

• Economic Development
  Santa Rosa County, Florida is serious about helping you grow your business. And we are ready to help you every step of the way—from site selection, incentives, workforce recruitment, and training, to your grand opening—the Santa Rosa County Economic Development Office is here to expedite and guide you through the process.

  
  Visit: http://www.santarosaedo.com/

• Permitting & Zoning
  Zoning regulates what uses are currently permitted on all properties located in Santa Rosa County. Development services overseas and regulates zoning. The commercial projects department assists customers who are developing commercial or multi-family residential projects. Many types of projects and new businesses require review, permitting and inspections and may need to be reviewed and approved prior to commencing work or starting a business.

  
  Samples of items that need approval or permitting are:

  • New Construction
  • Remodels/renovations, including build-outs
  • Changes of use of a property
  • Changes of occupancy of an existing building
  • Site construction work
  • Parking lot improvements
  • Simple electrical services/change
  • New duct work or new a/c unit

  Visit: https://www.santarosa.fl.gov/149/Development-Services

• Tangible Personal Property Tax
  Tangible personal property can be defined as all property other than real estate that is used for business purposes or commercial activity. Examples of TPP are tools, furniture, equipment and machinery, supplies, and leased or loaned equipment.

  
  All business owners, persons or firms owning, leasing, consigning or renting tangible property in Santa Rosa County on January 1 must file a Tangible Personal Property tax return DR-405 with the property appraiser unless a waiver to file a return was previously granted. Returns and waiver notifications are mailed annually in January.

  
  Visit: https://www.srcpa.org/Home/TPP/

• Property Appraiser
  The Property Appraiser is the elected official Constitutionally responsible for determining the just value of all real and tangible property in the county. The Property Appraiser's Office also administers the various property exemptions and maintains an extensive property information system available to the public.

  
  Visit: https://www.srcpa.org

• Tax Collector
  Tax Collectors participate in the management of the executive branches of state government which include the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Department of Revenue. In most counties the Tax Collector is responsible for not only the collection of valorem taxes, which is the single largest tax collected in Florida, but also for the collection of other taxes at the local level such as occupational license taxes, taxes imposed by special levying districts and also taxes imposed by state agencies.

  
  Visit: http://www.srctc.com/

• City Websites in Santa Rosa

  New businesses are encouraged to explore these websites for:

  • Local business tax receipt, also called an occupational license, required by almost all local governments;
  • Building permits, plan reviews and inspections;
  • Code compliance and enforcement information;
  • Planning and zoning; and
  • Community and economic development opportunities.
    

  Some local websites have limited online services, so we suggest using their listed contacts for more information.

  • Gulf Breeze - https://cityofgulfbreeze.us/
  • Jay - https://www.townofjayfl.com/
  • Milton - https://www.miltonfl.org/