Business Checklist

If you are running a business in the Village of North Palm Beach, or if you are planning to open one, please follow this checklist of important things you need to do to ensure you are properly following Village Codes, and to prevent any expensive mistakes that can derail your startup plans:

Determine Legal Structure

• Decide on the legal structure of your business (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation).

Identify Funding Sources 

• Research and identify funding sources, including grants and loan opportunities.

Register Business Name 

• Register your business name with the Florida Division of Corporations at www.sunbiz.org.
• If applicable, register your fictitious name with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations.

Obtain Tax Certificates and ID Numbers

• Obtain a Florida Sales Tax Certificate from the Florida Department of Revenue.
• Obtain a Federal Tax ID Number or use your Social Security Number with the Internal Revenue Service at www.irs.gov.

Determine Business Location

• Decide on the location of your business.
• Check the Village’s zoning code at:
  1. Village Code of Ordinances
  2. Village Zoning Map 
• Optionally, request a Zoning Confirmation Letter from the Community Development Department.

Apply for Business Tax Receipts 

• Apply for a Business Tax Receipt from the Village and the County. 

Determine Licenses and Permits 

Identify and obtain the necessary licenses and permits required by the Village.

•  If making alterations to your space, apply for a Building Permit from the Village.
•  If installing a new sign, seek approval from the Village Planning, Zoning, and Adjustment Board.

State Licenses

• Determine if any state licenses are required for your business type (e.g., restaurants, hotels).

Utilities Application

• Complete the application for utilities, if applicable.