SouthgatePermits · Dade & Broward
A-08Service

Certificate of Use & Business Tax Receipt

You cannot legally open the doors without them, and they are gated behind zoning approval, inspections, and sometimes a fire sign-off. We run the whole sequence.

Who it's for
New business owners, restaurants, retail, offices, home-based businesses
Turnaround
Typically 2-6 weeks depending on jurisdiction and whether inspections are required.
Fee structure
Flat rate, quoted in writing before anything is filed
Cost
Quoted per project once we've seen the scope
01Scope of work

What's included

  • Zoning verification for the intended use at that specific address
  • Certificate of Use application and filing
  • Local Business Tax Receipt filing at both city and county level where both apply
  • Fire inspection scheduling and coordination
  • State license coordination where the use requires one
  • Renewal calendar so you are not caught by a lapse

What we need from you

  • Business name and entity documents
  • Signed lease or proof of ownership
  • Description of the intended use
  • Owner or officer identification

Missing something on this list? Send what you have. We will tell you what else is needed before you pay anything.

02Sequence of work

How it actually goes

01

Zoning check

First question is always whether the zoning at that address allows what you intend to do. We verify before you spend anything else.

02

File the CU

Application filed with the correct jurisdiction. Many South Florida businesses need both a city and a county filing.

03

Inspections

Zoning and fire inspections scheduled and attended.

04

BTR

Business Tax Receipts filed once the CU clears. In Miami-Dade most businesses owe both a municipal and a county receipt.

05

Renewals

We calendar your renewals so a lapsed receipt does not become a fine.

03Questions we get

Straight answers

Do I need both a city and a county BTR?

In Miami-Dade, businesses located inside a municipality generally need both the municipal receipt and the county receipt. In unincorporated areas it is the county only. We confirm for your specific address.

Can I get a CU before my build-out is done?

Generally no, because the certificate of use is typically tied to passing inspections on the completed space. Plan the sequence so your opening date accounts for it.

What about a home-based business?

Many jurisdictions allow home occupations with restrictions on signage, employees, traffic, and storage. It is usually possible but the rules are specific. We check yours.

04Related sheets

Ready to start on cu & btr?

Free scope check, no obligation. Most people hear back the same business day.