Step One - Getting Started

Decide what legal structure you would like to have: A) Sole Proprietor, B) Partnership C) Corporation D) LLC (Limited Liability Company). Lawyers and doctors may form a Professional Association (PA). Although you do not need an attorney to start a business, it is recommended to seek counsel at the outset of any new venture. For your convenience, all forms can be found on-line at
 www.sunbiz.org.

 Step Two - Look Before You Lease!

Check the zoning, parking and other regulations with the City of Doral Planning and Zoning Department BEFORE signing a contract with a leasing agent. For businesses moving into an existing space that are planning interior remodeling, be sure to check with the Building Department for a building permit. You may also be required to obtain additional licenses and permits from  Miami-Dade Fire and  DERM (Department of Environmental Resources). New businesses are strongly advised to visit the City of Doral Planning and Zoning Department in person before proceeding with any contracts or leases.

 Step Three - Do Your Due Diligence

As a new business, you may be required by the City to obtain additional permits or licenses from the State or other entities. To determine the appropriate licensing department for your new business visit  www.myflorida.com/dbpr. In an effort to help businesses begin construction work sooner and accelerate the plan review process, the City of Doral Building Department offers Early Start Permitting and Fire/DERM Concurrent Plan Reviews. For more information, please visit the Building Department online or contact the Building Department with any questions.

 Step Four - Local Business Tax Receipt and Certificate of Use

Every business in the City of Doral is required to obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt (Occupational License) and or Certificate of Use regardless of how small and even if your business runs out of your home. Please contact  btrlicensing@cityofdoral.com for request on additional items that are needed to apply for your LBT and CU. Every business is also required to obtain a Miami-Dade County LBT License. These requirements are enforced by the City of Doral Code Compliance Department.

 Step Five (Optional) - Business Startup Assistant

 Miami-Dade County’s Business Startup Assistant provides individualized information on what you will need to launch YOUR business. Get a checklist of local, state and federal requirements among nine different business types, or choose to receive information about opening a general business.
 Try the Business Startup Assistant now. (*This service is provided by Miami-Dade County and is not part of the City of Doral!*)