Mission Statement

Our mission is to ensure the highest quality of service for the business community to thrive in our hometown environment.

Important Notice: All Applications must be submitted online only; paper, email, or in-person applications will not be accepted. LBTR Login

Important Reminders:

Before signing a lease or purchasing a property, please verify that the business use is permitted at that location and if additional requirements are needed due to a Change of Use from prior business. 

It is important to inquire about any open permits or unresolved building or code violations related to the property.  This may delay obtaining a Local Business Tax Receipt; furthermore, such issues could result in legal and financial risks, like fines and delays in leasing or purchasing. Conducting thorough due diligence will help ensure smooth business operations without unexpected setbacks.  

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Overview of Local Business Tax Receipts

All business entities considering locating a business or profession in the City of Margate must first apply for a Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR). The LBTR license period begins on October 1st and ends on September 30th.  

General Application Process

Check Zoning Approval: Before signing a lease, verify with the Zoning Department that your intended business is allowed in your chosen location. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask us.

Complete the Application: After receiving zoning approval, please complete your application at: Application for Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR)

Department Review: Once your application is received, it will be reviewed by the Zoning, Building and Engineering Departments for review and approval of the use.

LBTR Payment: Please make a payment for your Local Business Tax Application.

Inspections: After all departments have completed their reviews, you’ll need to schedule life safety inspections with the Building Department (applicable to commercial properties). The purpose of these inspections is to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Florida Building Code.

Building Inspection Requirements:

Inspections: Electrical, Mechanical, Structural, Plumbing, Fire and Code.

Inspections must be completed and passed within 45 days.

A 6' to 8' ladder is required at the business during inspections.

If any violations are identified during the inspections, the LBTR will be denied until all corrections are made and verified.

The LBTR will ONLY be issued after passing ALL inspections and reviews.

Renewal Deadlines

All Local Business Tax Receipts are due by October 1st and will expire on September 30th of the following year. If you obtain your LBTR between October 1st and April 1st, the full annual fee is required. For receipts obtained from April 1st to September 30th, the fee is half the annual rate. The Renewal Term begins in July and ends on September 30th.  On October 1st, penalty fees will be incurred.

Please renew at: Renew your Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR)

Additional Information

Chapter 25 of the Margate Code of Ordinances outlines the Schedule of Business Taxes and provides further guidance on starting your business in Margate. Visit the Code of Ordinances - Fee Structure.