Event Planning Permit Requirements in Miami, FL

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if operating as a business entity (LLC or corporation) or if you have employees. Free from the IRS. You will need an EIN to open a business bank account and sign vendor contracts professionally.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Florida Business Registration

   Event planning businesses operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership must register with the Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz). Sole proprietors using a trade name must file a Fictitious Name registration ($50) with the Division of Corporations under ch. 865.09, F.S. An LLC provides personal liability protection, which is especially important when coordinating large events.

   Official government source

   $125 (LLC); $70 (profit corporation); $50 (fictitious name)·1–7 business days (online)

   $125 (LLC); $70 (profit corporation); $50 (fictitious name)

   1–7 business days (online)

2. Florida Sales Tax Permit (if applicable)

   Event planning coordination services are generally not subject to sales tax in Florida, but if your business sells taxable items — such as event supplies, decorations, floral arrangements, or other tangible goods — you must collect and remit state sales tax. Some states specifically tax event planning or entertainment services. Confirm your obligations with the Florida Department of Revenue.

   Official government source

   Free (online); $5 by mail·Immediate (online)

   Free (online); $5 by mail

   Immediate (online)

1. Miami General Business License

   Event planning businesses operating in the City of Miami must obtain a Business Tax Receipt, renewed annually, plus a Miami-Dade County Local Business Tax Receipt. Home-based planners apply for an Accessory Use (home office) through MiamiBiz instead of a full Certificate of Use.

   Official government source

   Varies by business classification under the City of Miami fee schedule; no citywide fee range is published on the official BTR page — confirm with the City of Miami at (305) 416-2087·1–2 weeks

   Varies by business classification under the City of Miami fee schedule; no citywide fee range is published on the official BTR page — confirm with the City of Miami at (305) 416-2087

   1–2 weeks

2. Miami Special Event Permit (for events in public spaces)

   Events using City of Miami public parks, streets, plazas, or other public venues require a Special Event Permit from the City of Miami. As the event planner you may obtain this on behalf of your client. Applications require event details, expected attendance, and proof of insurance meeting the city's posted coverage requirements (see the city's 'Required Insurance Coverage for Events' page).

   Official government source

   Fees vary by event size, venue and city services required; see the City of Miami special event permit page and required insurance coverage page·2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

   Fees vary by event size, venue and city services required; see the City of Miami special event permit page and required insurance coverage page

   2–6 weeks (apply at least 30 days in advance for most events; 60+ days for large events)

3. Miami-Dade County Temporary Use / Special Event Permit (if applicable)

   Large outdoor events on unincorporated Miami-Dade County land (outside city limits) may require county zoning approval such as a temporary use/special event approval under the county code (e.g., special events on vacant property are approved under §33-13(h)). Requirements and fees vary — confirm with Miami-Dade RER before the event.

   Varies; confirm with Miami-Dade County Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER) zoning/permitting·2–4 weeks

   Varies; confirm with Miami-Dade County Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER) zoning/permitting

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

• Miami Business Licensing
• Florida Secretary of State — Business Registration
• IRS EIN Application

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