New Business Use Permit & Business Tax Process - City of Edgewood

This section outlines the step-by-step process for new businesses to obtain a Use Permit and Business Tax Receipts (BTRs) in the City of Edgewood and Orange County. Exceptions include 1099 contractors (e.g., hairstylists leasing a chair) and businesses within a common-entrance suite where the building owner holds a current Use Permit and BTR.
 

1. City of Edgewood Zoning Approval:

• Begin by completing the City of Edgewood Business Tax Receipt Application, ensuring you include:
  • Proof of LLC.
  • Proof of Fictitious Name/DBA.
  • All applicable local and state licenses.
  • Additional documents as requested.
• Complete the Orange County Use Permit Application.
• Submit both applications and all supporting documents to info@edgewood-fl.gov. City staff will review the business type and zoning for compliance.
• Upon zoning approval, the City will email a stamped, zoning-approved Use Permit and BTR Application.

Immediately after zoning approval from the City of Edgewood, please follow the steps below to avoid any delay in scheduling inspections and opening for business.

2. Orange County Use Permit Submittal (Fast Track): The City of Edgewood has an inter-local agreement with Orange County to handle building permits and inspections. Direct all inquiries regarding Fast Track, Use Permit requirements, and inspections to Orange County.

• Immediately after City zoning approval, create a Fast Track account or log in if you already have one.
• Select your appropriate user type (Business Owner, Licensed Professional, or Licensed Contractor) and user category "Building."
• Select "Use Permit" and follow the Fast Track instructions, including fee payment and document uploads. Upload ONLY the City zoning approved stamped Use Permit and BTR applications.
• Orange County requires a life safety plan as part of the Use Permit submission. This plan, typically a floor plan illustrating emergency procedures, can be professionally prepared or hand-sketched. The plan must include the following: 
  • Furniture and equipment layout
  • Room identification
  • Emergency lighting and exits
  • Fire extinguisher locations
  • Sprinkler system details (if applicable)
  • Identification of potential hazards
  • Exit distance measurements.
• Be aware that an "alterations" permit may be required if the new business's use differs from the previous use, necessitating Florida Building Code modifications.
• Direct all Use Permit questions to the County. The City is unable to assist you with this process.

3. Inspections & Certificate of Occupancy (CO):

• Once your Use Permit is issued, schedule inspections through Fast Track or by calling Building Inspection (407-836-5550) or Fire Inspection (407-836-0070, option 4).
• Upon successful final inspection, you will receive your CO, accessible through Fast Track or by contacting buildingrecords@ocfl.net.

4. Business Tax Receipts (BTRs):

• Provide a copy of your CO to info@edgewood-fl.gov or in person.
• Pay the Edgewood BTR fee (City staff will provide details). Your BTR will be processed within 24-48 hours and be ready for pickup or mailed. A digital copy will also be emailed to you if requested.
• Apply for an Orange County BTR online. If you do this, YOU MUST upload a digital copy of your Edgewood BTR.
• You may also apply for your Orange County BTR in person at 301 S Rosalind Ave., Orlando, FL 32801. A physical copy of your Edgewood BTR will be required.
• For questions regarding the Orange County BTR process, please call 407-434-0312, option 2.

5. Business Operation & Renewal:

• With both Edgewood and Orange County BTRs, you are authorized to operate.
• Both BTRs must be renewed annually.
• Edgewood BTR renewal: July 1 – September 30 (for the October 1 – September 30 fiscal year). Late renewals are subject to penalties.