Randy Aldridge
    Building Official
   raldridge@mywinterhaven.com
 

Pursuant to City of Winter Haven Ordinance Article II
Local Business Tax, § 9-26-9-35

A business tax is levied on any person who maintains a permanent business location or branch office within the City for the privilege of engaging in or managing any business, profession or occupation within the City of Winter Haven.

You are conducting business when you do any of the following: sell goods or services; solicit business and/or offer goods or services for sale, hire, lease or rent; acquire or use for business purposes any vehicle, premises, machines or device within the City; perform a trade or service for any person or business.

How do I apply for a business tax?

First, you must complete the business tax application available in our office or on our website on the link above. Bring documentation pertaining to your business such as articles of incorporation, fictitious name registration and county and state licensing where applicable.

Can I have my business in my home?

It depends. The use of your home as a business location is limited to office space only. In a home occupation, no walk-up trade, signage, advertising of the home address or storage of vehicles and equipment is allowed. Our Planning Division staff reviews all applications and will advise if there are zoning restrictions to prevent issuance of a home occupational permit.

What is the cost of a business tax in Winter Haven, Florida?

License fees vary depending on the type of occupation. We accept cash, check, or credit card for payment.

How long will it take to get the license?

The completed application will be forwarded to the planning Division, Fire Marshall and Building inspectors for review, inspection and approval. This will take 7 to 10 business days. Our office will contact you to pick up your Business Tax Receipt.

Is this the only license needed to open a business?

No, before you can obtain your City license, you must first get a Polk County license. The County office is at 430 East Main Street, Bartow, Florida. Since this is a separate agency, we suggest calling the Occupational Licenses-Polk County Tax Collector's Office at (863) 534-4700 to see what information is required.

Is this license good for as long as I have my business?

A business tax is issued for a fiscal year beginning October 1 and ending September 30 of the following year. Renewal notices are mailed in August to allow time for processing payments, printing and mailing renewed licenses.

What if I am late renewing my business tax?

Business taxes not renewed by October 1 are subject to a penalty of up to 25 percent of the total cost of the license. This is pursuant to § 205.0535. The fee schedule follows:

What if I relocate my business within Winter Haven, change the name or close my business?

If you move, change the name or sell your business, you need to follow the same requirements as you would for a new business tax. Bring in the current receipt, supporting documents and complete a new application showing all new information. There is a $3.00 transfer fee for processing. If you are closing your business, notify the City in writing to inactivate the license to avoid additional fees.

Department of Professional Regulation
Tallahassee, Florida

Phone: (850) 487-2252

State License - Food Service
Division of Hotels and Restaurants
Tampa, Florida

Phone: 1-800-880-7753

Alcoholic Beverage License
Tampa, Florida 813-272-2610
Orlando, Florida

Phone: (407) 245-0785

Corporation Information

http://sunbiz.org/