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1. What is the Local Business Tax?

Formerly known as “Occupational License”, the Local Business tax is a tax for the privilege of engaging in business within the jurisdiction of the local governing authority.

2. Who is required to pay the Local Business Tax?

As outlined in Article II, Section 19-26, of the City of Palmetto’s Code of Ordinances, a business tax is hereby 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 within the City.

3. How do I apply for the Local Business Tax?

Applications are available at City Hall, 516 8th Avenue West, Palmetto, or on the City’s website, www.palmettofl.org. All required documentation and fees are due when the application is submitted. More...

4. Am I exempt from paying the local business tax?

Certain types of businesses are exempt from paying the local business tax. These include farm, aqua cultural, grove, horticultural, floricultural, tropical piscicultural, tropical fish farm products, nonresident persons regulated by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, disabled persons, the aged, and widows with minor dependents, disabled veterans of any war or their un-remarried spouses, religious tenets, charitable organizations, occasional sales, fund raising, and mobile home setup operations. Please refer to Florida Statutes, Title XIV, Chapter 205 for a complete description of these exemptions. The website is www.leg.state.fl.us. More...

5. What is the Enterprise Zone and do I qualify for a discount?

You may qualify for a 50% discount on the local business tax annual fee if your business is located within the designated areas of the Enterprise Zone. The purpose of the Enterprise Zone is to rehabilitate, conserve or redevelop said areas of the City that exhibit extreme and unacceptable levels of poverty, unemployment, physical deterioration, and economic disinvestment. Please refer to the map included in this packet to see if you qualify for this exemption.

6. What type of Local Business Tax(es) am I required to pay?

Classifications are determined by the business being conducted. In some cases more than one tax will be required for a single location. Contact our Customer Service Department at 941-723-4570 to find out the classification of your business.

7. Does the Local Business Tax require renewal?

YES. Local Business Taxes are renewed annually based on a fiscal calendar beginning October 1st and ending on September 30th. Renewal notices are mailed to businesses beginning in July and renewal fees must be received no later than September 30th to avoid penalties.

8. I am starting a business on April 1st. Do I have to pay the full years tax?

Any business obtaining a new license from April 1st through September 30th shall only pay one half the full tax for the year. You will be required to renew by October 1st of that year paying the full annual amount every year after.

9. When will I receive my Local Business Tax Receipt?

Once your application has been received, processing usually takes less than 10 business days. The business tax receipts are mailed directly to the business address or you can arrange to pick up the business tax receipt at City Hall.

10. I am selling my business/transferring ownership. Is my license transferable?

Yes. There is a form you and the new owners will need to complete in addition to a $5.00 transfer fee. You may obtain this form online at www.palmettofl.org or at City Hall located at 516 8th Avenue West. More...

11. I am moving my business to another location. Will I need a new local business tax receipt?

Yes. You will be required to fill out a new application, complete the transfer of location form, and have an inspection of the new site. There is a $40.00 fee for the inspection and a $5.00 fee for the transfer of the new business license tax. Forms are available online at www.palmettofl.org or at City Hall located at 516 8th Avenue West. More...