All businesses should pay tax. It used to be a state law (until 2009) that every business got what was termed an "Occupational License" which was, in effect, their proof that they registered as a business and paid taxes. In 2009 the state abolished the state requirement and left it up to each county. Today, Lake County still uses that system and many business who say they are "licensed" will show you a Lake County Occupational License which means they paid their $30 to Lake. Marion and Sumter did away with the paper license part so businesses in those counties can't get an "occupational license" on paper. BTW, the Lake County 'occupational license' (looks like an old IBM card and is the same size) has nothing to do with the occupation the business is in and only pertains to their paying taxes to the county. Everything you names (lawn services, landscapers, house cleaners, maid services, etc.) are NOT licensed by the state. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) licenses the building trades (Electricians, Plumbers, Roofers, General Contractors, HVAC Repairs, etc.). Visit their web site to check on the license of any professional.
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