FAQs • Belleview, FL • CivicEngage

How do I open a business in the City of Belleview?: To open a business in a commercial unit inside the city limits you will need to complete the Change of Tenancy permitting process. The application is available on the Business Information page as well as a 'New Business Information' Guide. The City will review your application and both the Building Official and Marion County Fire Prevention will inspect the unit for safety. Once the unit passes both inspections, you will contact the Development Services Department to pay your business tax, and a Local Business Tax Receipt is issued and you may open for business.

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Business Resources

1. What is a business tax?: A business tax (formally known as an Occupational License), is a local municipal tax for businesses doing business inside the city limits of Belleview. The fee is based on the type of business performed.

2. How do I open a business in the City of Belleview?: To open a business in a commercial unit inside the city limits you will need to complete the Change of Tenancy permitting process. The application is available on the Business Information page as well as a 'New Business Information' Guide. The City will review your application and both the Building Official and Marion County Fire Prevention will inspect the unit for safety. Once the unit passes both inspections, you will contact the Development Services Department to pay your business tax, and a Local Business Tax Receipt is issued and you may open for business.

3. Can I use my home as my office space for my business?: Home businesses may be conducted in all residential districts under certain provisions as per City of Belleview Code of Ordinances and Florida Statute. Please refer to our Code of Ordinances for a list of regulations, by clicking here. All home businesses are required to obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt prior to operation. Please contact city staff at 352-245-7021 for additional information.

4. My business is mobile and is in different places depending on the day of the week. What type of business tax do I need?: Mobile businesses such as food trucks and mobile car washes are required to obtain a business tax and would complete the “Business Tax with No Physical Location” application. This means your business is not physically located in the City limits, but you do business inside the City on occasion.

5. What information is needed with my business tax application?: Copies of the following:
1. Fictitious name registration (Via www.sunbiz.org)
2. Copy of necessary state or federal licenses (Food service, Motor Vehicle Repair, Cosmetology, Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, etc.)
3. Tax ID/FEIN# or Social Security Number
4. Garbage service verification
5. Property owner permission for business to operate in that location (signed lease or other notarized authorization)

6. Is a business tax required to sell goods at the Christmas parade?: Yes, a seasonal business tax is required.

7. Do I pay a fee if my business is a not-for-profit?: Not-for-profit businesses are required to have a business tax but are exempt from fees.

8. I work in a hair salon as a stylist; am I required to have a business tax?: No, individual stylists, therapists, doctors, etc. are not required to have their own business tax. However, the company or office you work for is required to have a business tax if located inside the City limits.

9. Do I need a business tax to sell to customers in Belleview if my business office is not in the City?: Yes, you are required to have a business tax although your business is not located in the City. Additionally, you and your employees should keep a copy of the business tax receipt in your vehicle at all times for reference purposes.