If you want to start a Florida-based business, it’s imperative that you try and get to grips with the legal landscape of the state, so that as an entrepreneur, you can be complicit and enjoy success in the long-term.
But while it is always helpful to have at least a basic understanding of Florida business laws as the owner of a small business, you can of course seek advice and guidance from Miami accountants.
To get you started, here are some of the most important Florida business laws:
Entity formation and compliance
The process of registering a business in Florida has recently been streamlined, making submissions online, a lot quicker.
Thanks to their flexibility, liability business laws and pass-through taxation, LLCs are still a popular entity structure choice. If you’re planning to raise capital by way of investors, however, an S-Corps or C-Corps may be more suitable. Professional advice is best sought at this early stage to ensure ongoing compliance once an entity has been chosen.
Licensing and permits
Licenses and permits appropriate to your industry must be obtained by anyone forming a business in Florida. Regulations often change, so always make sure you have access to the latest information regarding this. Failure to comply typically results in operational shutdowns, hefty fines or even legal action, none of which are good news for entrepreneurs.
As well as licenses at a state level, businesses must comply with regulations at county and city levels, including zoning permits. From the restriction of business activities in certain areas, to environmental permits for the disposal of waste, and building permits for signage or renovations, help from a local accountant can ensure you have all the necessary licenses and permits you need.
Employment and labor laws
Although federal labor laws are upheld in Florida, it also enforces some regulations that are specific to the state. These can change frequently, so it’s important that as an entrepreneur, you make yourself aware of the most recent laws regarding employment.
Tax obligations and incentives
With policies that are tax-friendly, Florida attracts many entrepreneurs every year, but it’s still important that businesses comply with sales tax, income tax for C-Corps, and unemployment taxes.
Intellectual property and contract law
Entrepreneurs in Florida must register trademarks, patents and copyrights with the USPTO: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office if they’re to protect their intellectual property, and follow contract law to the letter.
Data privacy and cybersecurity regulations
The Florida Digital Bill of Rights, or FDBR came into effect in 2025, imposing stringent requirements on how businesses handle data; particularly consumer data. Adopting strong and clear polices for the protection of data is paramount for all businesses.
Real estate and zoning laws
Zoning laws enforced by local governments dictate where businesses are permitted to operate, and to avoid inconvenient and expensive relocations, it’s essential to be aware of these before signing a lease.
Environmental and sustainability regulations
With industries such as tourism, agriculture and manufacturing affected by environmental laws in Florida, all businesses must follow regulations related to water usage, disposal of waste and emissions.
E-commerce and online business compliance
Even if your business operates solely online, you must still comply with sales tax laws in Florida, and adhere to federal laws protecting consumers, including honest advertizing and return policies that are transparent.
Last, but by no means least, Florida entrepreneurs must seek help from an accounting firm in Coral Gables to formulate an exit strategy, buy-sell agreement or succession plan for the future of their business. Staying up-to-date with all business laws in Florida will help ensure that your business doesn’t attract the wrong kind of attention, enjoys a steady flow of customers, has a satisfied workforce, and ultimately, turns a profit.