All businesses operating within Winter Haven city limits must obtain a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from the Winter Haven Building Division under Chapter 9 (Licenses and Business Regulations). BTRs are issued after Planning/Zoning review confirms the activity is allowed in the property's zoning district.
Under Chapter 9 of the Winter Haven Code, every business - including home occupations, online sellers, and short-term rental hosts - must obtain a BTR from the Building Division at 490 Third Street NW (863-291-5695). The application requires zoning verification by the Planning Division (863-291-5600) which confirms the business activity is permitted in the parcel's zoning district under Chapter 21 ULDC. The BTR also requires any applicable state Department of Business and Professional Regulation license (contractors, real estate agents, salons) and Federal EIN if applicable. BTRs renew annually with a renewal fee due October 1. Operating without a BTR is a Ch. 9 violation; the Building Division can refuse to issue a BTR if the business activity violates Ch. 21 zoning.
Operating without a BTR is a Ch. 9 violation enforced under Ch. 1 (Sec. 1-13) general penalty and FS Ch. 205 (local business tax). Typical first-offense letter requires immediate compliance; continued operation triggers a daily fine up to $250 through Code Compliance.
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