Are you
OPENING,
CHANGING OR
Relocating
your business in Miami Beach?
Start on these 3 steps right away to avoid unnecessary delays.
The City of Miami Beach is working hard to help our new businesses have a smooth start and our existing businesses to stay in good standing. These three steps are important to get you off to a great start.
Do not be discouraged if you are requested to provide additional information during any of these application processes — you will find out more about what is needed for your unique situation as you go.
Step 1 (CU) and Step 2 (County Review) need to be completed before step 3 (BTR); however, start collecting the required documents for the BTR early on so the last step is a fast process.
-
NOTE
A Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) or a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) indicate that a construction permit is near or at final stage. TCO or CO do not authorize operation of a business. Please follow Steps 1,2 and 3 outlined in this guide to operate safely and legally.
Apply for a Certificate of Use (CU)
with the City of Miami Beach
A Certificate of Use (CU) confirms that the intended business operations at a stated location are consistent with the Land Development Regulations at the time of approval. It ensures that businesses are operating legally and safely, and respect the regulations that protect our beautiful city.
Step 1 Questions? Contact the City of Miami Beach Planning and Zoning Department at 305.673.7550 Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Apply for Miami-Dade County CU Review
Businesses are required to get County approvals if there is a “defined square footage” and a “defined location” for a
business. Additionally, based on the business use, Division of Environmental Resources Management (DERM) operating permit may be also required.
CU applications that do not need a County review include:
- Home-based businesses
- Short-term rental properties
- Apartment buildings and condos
Step 2 Questions? Contact the Miami-Dade Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources at
dermplanreview@miamidade.gov or 786.315.2800
Apply for a BTR with the City of Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County
Anyone who provides goods or services to the public, even if only a one-person company or home-based business, must obtain a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from both the City of Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County in order to operate. Applications require:
- Valid CU from the City of Miami Beach
- Fully-executed lease
- DERM approval and Municipal CU, if required
- Federal Identification Number (FEIN)
- Articles of Incorporation
- Fictitious name (if applicable)
- State license (if applicable)
- Additional documentation based on business type
Step 3 Questions? Contact the City of Miami Beach Customer Service Center at 305.673.7420 Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM (closed noon to 1 PM).
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