Punta Gorda Hair Salon License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. Florida Cosmetology Salon License (DBPR)
   No cosmetology salon may operate without a DBPR salon license.
   ⏰ Salon licenses expire November 30 of every even year (next: November 30, 2026)
   Source: Florida Statutes §477.025 (cosmetology salon license) · Florida DBPR: Board of Cosmetology (license types and renewal dates)
2. Each stylist's Cosmetologist License (DBPR)
   Everyone doing hair must hold their own license, with continuing education to renew.
   ⏰ October 31: Group 1 in odd years, Group 2 in even years
   Source: Florida DBPR: Board of Cosmetology (license types and renewal dates)
3. 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 (Punta Gorda / Charlotte County)

1. City of Punta Gorda Local Business Tax Receipt
   Required for businesses, professions and vacation rentals in the city; one per location, plus a change-of-use permit application. Licensed professionals $105/yr; non-licensed $63 (1–19 employees); home-based $105 or $63. Half fee for new businesses after March 30.
   ⏰ Expires September 30; 10% late after October 1, rising to 25% after January 1
   Source: City of Punta Gorda: Business Taxes
2. Charlotte County Business Tax Receipt
   The city says all businesses, including vacation rentals, also need a Charlotte County receipt.
   ⏰ Verify the county renewal date with the Charlotte County Tax Collector
   Source: City of Punta Gorda: Business Taxes