Sanibel HVAC License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. Florida air-conditioning or mechanical contractor license (DBPR CILB)
   HVAC contracting needs a license in the right class: Class A air-conditioning (unlimited), Class B (up to 25 tons cooling / 500,000 Btu heating per system), or mechanical contractor.
   ⏰ Renew with DBPR each cycle, with continuing education (check the date on your license)
   Source: Florida Statutes §489.105 (contractor definitions) · Florida Statutes §489.115 (contractors must be certified or registered; renewals; CE)
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 (Sanibel / Lee County)

1. City of Sanibel Business Tax Receipt
   Required for all Sanibel-based businesses, including home occupations and real estate rentals (annual and short-term). Off-island businesses need a Business Tax Registration ($50/yr); DBPR-licensed off-island contractors exempt.
   ⏰ Expires September 30; renewal July 1 to September 30; penalties from October 1
   Source: City of Sanibel: Business Tax Receipts
2. Lee County Business Tax Receipt
   The city says a Lee County receipt is also required.
   ⏰ Expires September 30; renew after July 1
   Source: City of Sanibel: Business Tax Receipts · Lee County Tax Collector: Business Tax Application