About: Business Tax Receipts - Starting a business in Palatka

If your business has a physical location in the City, you need a Palatka Business Tax Receipt to operate. (This was formerly known as the occupational license.)

The receipt is valid from October 1 to September 30, and you need to renew it annually by September 30.

There are several variables and conditions that affect what you need to receive a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) in the City of Palatka. Remember, the City staff is here to help you with the process.

State Requirements:

Many occupations and businesses require state licenses and permits. Check the Florida Department of State’s Division of Corporations website for general state business regulations and information visit https://dos.myflorida.com/sunbiz/ and http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/

Before we issue a Local Business Tax Receipt, a business must meet all required conditions.

Supporting documentation should include Corporation registration information, and/or Fictitious Name registration, State License for the profession (if any), Picture ID, Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number.  

The renewal period for Local Business Taxes starts July 1st and runs through September 30th. We mail the Local Business Tax renewal applications in June as a courtesy reminder to allow time for processing payments, printing, and mailing renewed Receipts.  New businesses may pay taxes any time during the fiscal year. We prorate the business tax beginning April 1st, at which time half-year rates apply.

It is the Receipt holder’s responsibility to renew before the expiration date to avoid penalties. You may renew your Local Business Tax Receipt by mail, online, or in person at the Putnam County Tax office.  

Business Location:

Ensure your chosen location is zoned for your business.

Zoning for property can be found at https://putnam-fl.com/ or by checking with City of Palatka Planning Department staff.

Check with the Putnam County Building Department at (386) 329-0307 to determine if a permit is required before making any improvements or repairs. All signs, including the re-facing or replacement of existing signs, require a permit.

All building permit applications must be submitted through Putnam County. They can be submitted at https://www5.citizenserve.com/Portal/PortalController

Changing a business location, use of a space or transferring a business requires a new Business Tax Receipt application and fire safety inspection.

Permits and Licenses:

Check the required licenses/permits for your business with the Building & Zoning Department at 386-329-0100.

Submit the following to the City of Palatka Planning Department in City Hall, 201 N 2nd Street, Palatka, FL 32177, or email to building-zoning@palatka-fl.gov for your Local Business Tax Receipt (LBT) at City Hall, 201 N 2nd Street Palatka, FL 32177

• Your filled-out Business Tax Receipt Application.  
• A photocopy of your government ID (or the ID of a designated company officer).
• All necessary state-regulated documents like Certifications, Registrations, Licenses, or mandatory state inventory.
• Evidence of property and business ownership.

Evidence of property and business ownership can be:

1. A deed recorded in the applicant’s name.
2. A fully executed lease agreement in the applicant’s name.
3. A notarized letter from the property owner granting permission to use the space.
4. An executed business contract and or articles of incorporation.
5. For business transfers, a notarized letter from the previous business owner agreeing to the name ownership transfer.

LINKS TO FORMS

• Business Tax Receipt Application
• Starting a Business in Palatka? A step-by-step guide

Fictitious Name / Corporation

A business using a fictitious name must submit a copy of the current Certificate of Registration; those using a corporate name must submit a copy of the corporation's current Certificate of Status from the State of Florida. The state now requires you to advertise all new business names.  Contact the state for more information.

Florida Department of State
Website: www.sunbiz.org
Fictitious Names: (850) 245-6058
Corporations: (850) 245-6052

State Regulated Professionals And Businesses

Professionals and businesses, such as physicians, engineers, real estate firms, mortgage brokers, restaurants, etc., must submit current State Certificates when applying for a new Local Business Tax Receipt. State information: 850-487-1395. The Local Business Tax is due for any state-licensed professional engaging in the practice for that profession. This does not relieve the requirement of paying the Local Business Tax for the business being operated.

All businesses dealing with food must have a permit from the Division of Hotels and Restaurants, the State Agriculture Department or the State Health Department. State information: (850) 487-1395.

Businesses such as sellers of travel, health studios, telemarketing, dance studios, pawn shops, motor vehicle repair shops and intrastate moving companies are regulated by the Florida Division of Consumer Services. They must show evidence of registration when applying for the Local Business Tax. For questions regarding licensing requirements, contact the Florida Division of Consumer Services at (800) 435-7352 or visit their website.

Any business that sells or deals in alcohol/tobacco must obtain a certificate from the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco at (904) 727-5550.

Building Contractors

In addition to a Local Business Tax Receipt, a Building Contractor needs a Current State Certificate issued by the State Construction Industry Board, (850) 487-1395.

The State Department of Business and Professional Regulations did away with the Qualifying Business License they issue, merging that requirement with the process of registering the Certified/Registered Contractor.

Fire Safety Inspection:

After submitting your documentation, you must schedule a fire safety inspection. This confirms that your business meets safety codes. Passing this is essential before progressing. You can schedule the inspection by emailing firesafetyinspections@palatka-fl.gov or by calling (386) 329-0120.   There is a $50 fee for the inspection.

Application Review:

After passing inspection, your application will undergo a review by City staff. You will be informed via email regarding the acceptance or rejection of your application. After approval, you’ll be asked to pay any outstanding fees.