Business Tax Certificates

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Doing Business in St. Pete

The Business Tax Division is part of The Billing & Collections Department. We are responsible for the issuance and collection of all Business Tax Receipts. The local Business Tax Receipt (in accordance with Chapter 205 of the Florida Statutes & Chapter 17 of the city code) grants the privilege of engaging in or managing any business, profession, or occupation within our jurisdiction.  

Before doing business in St. Petersburg, business owners need to obtain a Business Tax Certificate Receipt, formerly known as an Occupational License Tax. This is an annual business tax for all businesses, professionals, independent contractors, and individuals who accept compensation for merchandise or services who are located in the city limits of St. Petersburg.   

Applications & Forms

Business Tax Application

The Business Tax Division provides Business certificate receipts for more than 400 business classifications. These classifications have different requirements, as well as different costs.

Contractors who wish to pull permits in St. Petersburg will need to register their business with the Construction Services and Permitting Department by contacting 727-893-7231.

Individuals doing work on a structure, or making any repairs, additions, or alterations to a structure, need to first acquire licenses/registration from the State of Florida and/or Pinellas County.

Click More below for additional services. 

Business Tax Renewal

Business Tax Certificate Receipts expire on September 30th of each year. Although the City normally mails renewal notices during July of each year, the tax is due on or before September 30th regardless of whether a renewal notice was received. To avoid a late charge penalty, payment must be received by the Business Tax Division office no later than September 30th. 

Renew License Online

Business owners must have their mailed or emailed renewal notice that provides the necessary numbers in order to complete an online renewal payment. If there are any changes to the business name, type of work, ownership, phone number, mailing information, or address, the renewal must be done by mail or in person.