Miami Beach Handyman / Home Contractor License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. Florida contractor license (DBPR CILB) — when needed
   A handyman without a state license may only do casual, minor jobs under $2,500 total (labor + materials), not split to dodge the limit, and may not advertise as a "contractor". Bigger or structural, roofing, electrical, plumbing or HVAC work needs the right license.
   ⏰ If licensed: verify your renewal date on your DBPR license
   Source: Florida Statutes §489.103 (contractor license exemptions)
2. Business name and entity filings (Sunbiz)
   LLCs and corporations file an annual report ($138.75 for an LLC). Using a name other than your legal name? Register it as a fictitious name.
   ⏰ Annual report: May 1 ($400 late fee). Fictitious name: renew every 5 years
   Source: Florida Division of Corporations: File Annual Report · Florida Statutes §865.09 (fictitious name registration)

Local (Miami Beach / Miami-Dade County)

1. City of Miami Beach Business License (CU + Fire + BTR)
   Every business needs a Certificate of Use, annual fire fee/inspection and Business Tax Receipt. The CU is issued after Planning approval and fire inspection; then apply for the BTR.
   ⏰ Renew by September 30 each year (state law)
   Source: City of Miami Beach: Business Tax Receipt, Certificate of Use, and Annual Fire Inspection · Florida Statutes §205.053 (business tax due dates and penalties)
2. Miami-Dade County Local Business Tax Receipt
   Businesses inside a city need both a city receipt and a county receipt. One receipt per location and per business category.
   ⏰ Renew by September 30 each year
   Source: Miami-Dade Tax Collector: Local Business Tax Receipt