Opa-locka Businesses Face 10% October Penalty for Unrenewed Occupational Licenses

Opa-locka business owners who have not yet renewed their occupational licenses for the current fiscal year now face delinquency penalties. Licenses not renewed by September 30 incurred a 10% penalty for the month of October. An additional 5% penalty will apply for each subsequent month of delinquency until the license is paid, though the total penalty cannot exceed 25% of the occupational license tax.

All businesses operating within the City of Opa-locka must obtain both a Business License and a Certificate of Use before opening their doors. These occupational licenses are valid for the fiscal year, beginning September 1 and expiring on September 30 of the following year, regardless of the initial issue date. Annual renewal is mandatory on September 1.

The Licensing Department requires businesses to display their occupational license conspicuously at their place of business. This ensures public visibility and allows for inspection by authorized City of Opa-locka officers. The department also mandates notification for any changes to a business, including name, ownership, location, number of employees, or equipment.

Business owners must complete and notarize both the Business License Application and the Certificate of Use Application. If a business ceases operations, the owner must notify the License Department in writing or by submitting a specific close of business form. Failure to adhere to these regulations results in the aforementioned penalties, emphasizing the city's commitment to proper business oversight and revenue collection.