Business License
A Lake Worth Beach Business License is required to operate all commercial and residential businesses located in the City. Learn how to apply for or renew your license.
A Lake Worth Beach Business License is required, pursuant to local and state laws, to operate all commercial and residential businesses located in the City of Lake Worth Beach. Anyone providing merchandise or services to the public, including home-based businesses, must have a current Lake Worth Beach Business License and a Business Tax Receipt from Palm Beach County.
About the Business License
A business license is valid from October 1 through September 30 of the following year. Courtesy reminders are mailed in July prior to the expiration date. The Lake Worth Beach Business License consists of 3 components:
Business Tax Receipt (BTR)
Use & Occupancy Certificate
Use & Occupancy Inspection (Required every 3 years)
When Do I Need a Business License?
- Opening a business
- Expanding a business into a new space
- Transferring a business to a new location
- Renting out commercial property
- Starting a home-based business
- Renting out residential property
- Operating a family day care or group home
How to Apply for a Business License
Follow these steps to apply for your Lake Worth Beach Business License.
Gather Your Documents
Collect all required documents for your business type — including your application, identification, articles of incorporation, and any applicable state licenses or certifications.
Submit Your Application
Complete the business license application online for faster processing, or download the PDF form and submit it to our office in person.
Apply OnlineInspection & Approval
Your application will be reviewed and a Use & Occupancy Inspection will be scheduled. Once approved, your business license will be issued.
License IssuedApplication Requirements by Business Type
Required documents vary by business type. Review the requirements for your category below.
City of Lake Worth Beach Business License application, completed in its entirety
Articles of Incorporation and/or Fictitious Name Registration
If applicable, copy of Trust paperwork
Proof of Ownership (recorded deed, PAPA statement, or tax bill)
If applicable, copy of Non-Profit (501-C3) Exemption Certificate
Copy of valid, non-expired state issued ID (driver's license, ID card, or passport)
City of Lake Worth Beach Business License application, completed in its entirety
Articles of Incorporation and/or Fictitious Name Registration
If applicable, State License or Certificate of Competency
If applicable, copy of Non-Profit (501-C3) Exemption Certificate
Copy of valid, non-expired state issued ID (driver's license, ID card, or passport) — must be the ID of a registered agent as per FL Department of Corporations
City of Lake Worth Beach License Receipt application, completed in its entirety (MUST include employer's FEIN number)
Articles of Incorporation and/or Fictitious Name Registration
State License
If applicable, copy of Non-Profit (501-C3) Exemption Certificate
Copy of valid, non-expired state issued ID (driver's license, ID card, or passport)
Special Requirements for Certain Businesses
Some business types require additional state certifications or approvals before a local license can be issued.
If your profession or business is certified by the Department of Business and Professional Regulations (850-487-1395) or Department of Health (850-488-0595), you must attach a copy of your certification, registration, or license to this application.
Banks, mortgage brokers, finance companies, and stockbrokers must be registered with the Office of Financial Regulation (850-410-9805). Attach a copy of the license showing proper business location to this application.
Restaurants and mobile food unit operators must contact the Division of Hotel and Restaurants (850-487-1395). You must attach a copy of an approved inspection report to this application or obtain an authorized signature on the Certificate of Approval provided with the packet.
Childcare applicants must have the approval of the Palm Beach County Health Department (561-355-3018). You must attach a copy of the license to this application or obtain an authorized signature on the Certificate of Approval provided with the packet.
Food outlets, auto repair, travel agencies, telemarketers, health, and dance (ballroom) studios must submit a permit, registration or exemption from the State of Florida, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (1-800-435-4352).
Certified contractors must attach a copy of the State of Florida and/or Palm Beach County certification. Call (561-233-5525) for certification information. County receipt is required, countywide municipal receipt is optional.
Dance studios, martial arts facilities, gyms, yoga, pilates, or similar businesses, including indoor recreation, must attach a copy of the certification from the Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (1-800-435-7352).
Check Zoning Before Signing a Lease
It is highly advisable to contact the Planning, Zoning & Historic Preservation Division (561-586-1687) before entering into a lease agreement to confirm that your proposed use is allowed in the zoning area. Depending on the proposed use, there may be building or change-of-use requirements per the Florida Building Code.
Ready to Apply?
Complete your business license application online for faster processing. Have your required documents ready before starting.