Purchasing or Leasing - No Construction Required
 

Research Land Use and Zoning Codes
Before signing contracts or leases, business owners should contact the City’s Planning Department to determine the land use and zoning for the prospective project and to get a use code for the business. This will ensure the proposed use is consistent with zoning at that location. Planning Division: (239) 574-0553

Complimentary Fire Inspection
Before purchasing or leasing space, business owners can ask for a complimentary fire inspection. This ensures that the business is aware of any safety issues or requirements. Such requirements are determined by the proposed use. Division of Fire Prevention Bureau: (239) 242-3264

Obtain appropriate state and local licenses for operating your type of business.

• Business owners using a name other than their legal name must register a fictitious name with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations at (850) 245-6058.
• Florida requires state licenses or certificates of competency for a number of professions and occupations. Many require special training and exams. Contact the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulations at (850) 487-1395.
• Apply to the Health Department for all required licenses and approvals: (239) 332-9501.
• Apply to the City Clerk for a Business Tax Receipt: (239) 574-0430.
• If signage is needed at your business, apply for a sign permit. (239) 574-0553.

Certificate of Use
It is recommended that 30 days before the completion of the building, a Certificate of Use (CU)application be submitted to the Building Division. The CU is required to occupy a unit or building. Several inspections are required before the certificate can be issued. Businesses located on a septic system or those related to Health Care Administration, Food Processing, Hotel/Motel Lodging or all other professionally regulated businesses may require an additional inspection by the appropriate state agency.

• Fire Inspection: Fire Prevention Bureau: (239) 242-3264
• Zoning Inspection: Zoning Division: (239) 574-0553
• Building Inspection: Building Division: (239) 574-0546
• Septic Inspection: Lee County Health Department: (239) 458-7025
• Health Care Inspections: Agency for Health Care Administration (239) 338-1318
• Restaurant/Hotel/Motel: Dept. of Business & Professional Regulation: (850) 487-1395
• Grocery Store/Deli: Department of Agriculture: 1-800-435-7352
• Contact Cape Coral Zoning for the Certificate of Use: (239) 574-0553

Lee County Business Tax Receipt (BTR)
In addition to the Cape Coral Business Tax Receipt, a Lee County BTR is required. Contact Lee County at (239) 339-6000.

Cape Coral zoning, building, fire, and licensing staff will assist you in coordinating compliance with these requirements.

Begin Business Operations! Thank you for choosing Cape Coral.