Auto Repair Shop Permit Requirements in Orlando, FL

1. EPA Small Quantity Generator (SQG) Registration

   Auto repair shops that generate used oil, antifreeze, or other hazardous waste must register with the EPA as a hazardous waste generator. Most auto shops qualify as Small Quantity Generators (SQG). Registration is administered through Florida DEP.

   Official government source

   Free (registration only; disposal costs vary)·2–4 weeks

   Free (registration only; disposal costs vary)

   2–4 weeks

2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Registration (FDACS)

   Florida requires anyone paid to repair motor vehicles owned by others to register with FDACS under the Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act (s. 559.904, F.S.). Registration is per location, renews biennially, and the fee is based on the number of repair employees ($50 for 1-5, $150 for 6-10, $300 for 11+). Written estimates and customer authorization are required for repairs over $100.

   Official government source

   $50-$300 biennial per location ($50 for 1-5 repair employees; $150 for 6-10; $300 for 11+)·3–6 weeks

   $50-$300 biennial per location ($50 for 1-5 repair employees; $150 for 6-10; $300 for 11+)

   3–6 weeks

2. Florida Sales Tax Registration

   Auto repair shops must register with the Florida Department of Revenue to collect sales tax. Repairs that include any parts or materials are fully taxable (parts and labor together); labor-only repairs are exempt (Rule 12A-1.006, F.A.C.). The state rate is 6%; Orange County adds a 0.5% surtax for a combined 6.5%.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

3. EPA Section 609 Certification (Automotive A/C)

   Technicians servicing vehicle air conditioning systems must be EPA Section 609 certified. Required for individual technicians handling refrigerants.

   Official government source

   $20–$35 per technician·Exam at approved testing center; certificate immediate upon passing

   $20–$35 per technician

   Exam at approved testing center; certificate immediate upon passing

1. City of Orlando Business Tax Receipt

   All businesses operating within Orlando city limits must obtain a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from the City of Orlando. Auto repair shops must also obtain a Certificate of Occupancy and pass a fire inspection. The BTR is renewed annually.

   Official government source

   $100–$400/year·2–4 weeks

   $100–$400/year

   2–4 weeks

2. Orange County Certificate of Occupancy / Zoning

   Auto repair shops in unincorporated Orange County or in Orlando must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy confirming proper zoning. Auto repair is typically permitted in I-1 or I-2 (industrial) and C-3 (general commercial) zones. Contact Orange County Building Division or City of Orlando Permitting Services.

   Official government source

   $150–$500·3–6 weeks

   $150–$500

   3–6 weeks

3. Orlando Fire Marshal Inspection

   Auto repair shops must pass an Orlando Fire Marshal inspection as part of the Certificate of Occupancy process. Compliance with fire codes for flammable liquid storage and emergency egress is required.

   Official government source

   Included in CO process·1–3 weeks

   Included in CO process

   1–3 weeks

4. Florida DEP — Environmental Compliance

   Orlando auto repair shops generating used oil, antifreeze, and hazardous materials must comply with Florida DEP regulations. Auto body paint booths may require an air quality permit from the Florida DEP or SJRWMD.

   Official government source

   Free (registration); air permits vary·2–6 weeks

   Free (registration); air permits vary

   2–6 weeks

Official Sources

• Florida FDACS — Motor Vehicle Repair
• City of Orlando — Business Tax Receipts
• Orange County — Building and Zoning

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