Licensing and Certifications  

The City of Ocala Licensing Department is charged with the responsibility of issuing and renewing licenses for occupations within the City of Ocala.   The license is actually on Occupational License Tax Certificate.  You are required to have one if you are operating a business within the City of Ocala.

Many people do not know how to apply for a license.  When you find a business location, you must schedule a "Change of Occupancy" inspection.  This inspection requires you to pre-pay a $45.00 fee.    After the inspection process is completed, and you receive a certificate of occupancy, you will have to come down to the Building Department 310 SE 3 St (one block South of City Hall) to apply for your Occupational license and have the utilities turned on in your business name.  When applying for your license, be sure to bring your "Fictitious Name" registration or your corporation papers from the State of Florida.  We will then issue the occupational license and transfer the utility account.  

The occupational license fees are based mainly on the square footage of the building occupied for business purposes.  There are some exceptions, such as ; professionals ( doctors, lawyers, contractors ), restaurants, rental businesses etc.  All occupational licenses in the State of Florida are valid from October 1 through September 30. Renewals must be mailed on or before August 1 of each year as required by Florida Statute Chapter 205. 

Home based business are allowed in the City of Ocala, but there are restrictions.  Contact the Zoning Department for more information. 

Before starting a business you should contact this office to find out all information regarding requirements, restrictions, costs, and regulations.  The number for the Occupational Licensing Department is ( 352 ) 629-8421.