West Palm 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 (West Palm Beach / Palm Beach County)

1. City of West Palm Beach Business Tax Receipt
   Required for any business in the city; home businesses need a notarized Home Occupation Affidavit. Some businesses also need a Certificate of Use ($50 first year, $20 renewal). Inspections must pass before the receipt is issued.
   ⏰ Renewal July 1 to September 30; delinquent and penalized from October 1
   Source: City of West Palm Beach: Business Tax
2. Palm Beach County Business Tax Receipt
   After the city receipt is issued, the city signs off zoning on your county application; you need a county receipt too.
   ⏰ Verify the county renewal date with Palm Beach County
   Source: City of West Palm Beach: Business Tax