Start a Business in St Petersburg

Permits, costs, timeline, and step-by-step requirements.

✔ 4 permits⏱ 2-6 weeks💰 Based on business type

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Overview

Starting a business in St Petersburg requires a Business Tax Receipt through the City of St. Petersburg Business Tax Division. Base fee: Based on business type. No state business license. No state income tax. Local Business Tax Receipt required by most cities/counties.

Required Permits

✓Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)
✓State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration
✓County: health department permit + fire inspection
✓City: business licence/tax certificate

Step-by-Step Process

1

Federal: EIN from IRS (free, instant online)

2

State: LLC/Corp filing + seller's permit/sales tax registration

3

County: health department permit + fire inspection

4

City: business licence/tax certificate

Costs

Estimated total: Based on business type depending on permits and inspections.

Contact

City of St. Petersburg Business Tax Division

Phone: 727-893-7171

Apply Online →

Common Mistakes

⚠ Dual BTR: City AND Pinellas County required
⚠ Pinellas County has own BTR separate from city
⚠ Beach/waterfront businesses may need additional coastal permits

Choose Your Business Type

RestaurantFood TruckBarber ShopRetail StoreCoffee ShopBar / NightclubGym / Fitness StudioNail SalonCannabis DispensaryDog GroomingBakeryCleaning ServiceDaycare CenterAuto Repair Shop

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