Start a Business in Lakeland

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 $50–$500

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Overview

Starting a business in Lakeland requires a Business Tax Receipt through the Revenue Division. Base fee: $50–$500. No state business license. No state income tax. Local Business Tax Receipt required by most cities/counties.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)
✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration
✓County: health department permit + fire inspection
✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

1

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

2

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

3

County: health department permit + fire inspection

4

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: $50–$500 depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

Revenue Division

Phone: 863-834-6264

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Polk County BTR also required
⚠ Between Tampa and Orlando — I-4 corridor
⚠ Publix headquarters
⚠ All BTRs expire September 30
⚠ Florida has no state income tax and no general business license at the state level

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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