2025 Boynton Beach
Welcome to Boynton Beach
The vibrant heart of South Florida where bold ideas take root and businesses grow. Whether you are launching your very first venture or expanding a long-held vision, this guide is designed to spark action and fuel your success.
Boynton Beach is more than just a place—it is a thriving community that believes in the power of entrepreneurship. Inside this guide, you will find the essential tools to help you turn ideas into income, navigate city processes with ease, and tap into resources designed to move your business forward.
So grab a notebook, clear some space on your whiteboard, and get ready to bring your business dreams to life. This is your launchpad, your roadmap, your invitation to start strong—and start BIG—in Boynton Beach.
And remember, this guide is just the beginning. The Economic Development Division is here to support you at every step. Let’s build something great together.
Note: Read this guide before signing any lease, as property owners may or may not check your zoning category. It is possible for new business owners to enter into a lease for a business type they actually cannot open in that location.
STEP 2
Choose A Business Structure
Your choice of business structure is a decision that impacts every aspect of your venture, from daily operations to tax implications and personal liability.
The business structure should fit your venture seamlessly, providing the right balance of legal protections and operational flexibility.
The most common structures are:
• Sole Proprietorship: A business owned and operated by a single individual. Examples: Freelance writers, consultants, independent contractors.
• Partnership A business owned and operated by two or more individuals who agree to share profits and losses. Examples: Law firms, accounting firms, medical practices.
• Limited Liability Company: A business structure that combines the flexibility and tax advantages of a partnership with the limited liability protection of a corporation. Owners are called members. Examples: Restaurants, consulting firms, real estate ventures.
If unsure, seek expert advice to understand the different business structures and ensure you make an informed decision that paves the way for success.
Source: US Small Business Administration
Note: The form of business you operate determines what taxes you must pay and how you pay them. The following are the five general types of business taxes. Check the New Business Start-Up Kit for more information.
STEP 3
NameAndRegister YourBusiness
In business, your name is your first impression—it’s how customers remember you. While your legal name is your official identity, using a fictitious name, or “DBA” (Doing Business As), can better reflect your brand’s personality and help you stand out. - see Appendix D
Onceyou’vechosenaname,registeritonSunBiz,Florida’s businessregistrationsite.Then,applyforafreeEmployer IdentificationNumber(EIN)throughtheIRS.Thisnumber letsyoufiletaxes,openbusinessbankaccounts,andhire employees.
Next, secure a business tax receipt from the City and Palm Beach County to fulfill your tax obligations. All businesses, including home-based and online, are required to have one.
Completing your registration and passing the required safetyinspectionhelpsensureyourbusinessisoperating legally and responsibly within the Boynton Beach community.
FAQ:Howmuchwoulditcosttoregistermynewbusiness:
• Employee Identification Number (EIN) $0
• Sunbiz registration number: $70.00 and up
• Fictitious Name Registration $50.00
• Boynton Beach Business Tax Receipt $80 and up
• Palm Beach County Business Tax Receipt $66 an up
Note: For a complete schedule of City’s Fees, click here
STEP 4
Fund Your Business
Every business needs money to get off the ground and keep running—and choosing how to fund your venture is a big decision.
Some people use their own savings (called bootstrapping), while others look for outside funding, like loans or investors. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so it’s important to think about what works best for your goals and talk to a mentor or financial advisor for guidance.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers three common loan options and a free tool called Lender Match to connect you with approved lenders:
• Microloans: Up to $50,000, usually for startups or smaller needs
• SBA 7(a) Loans: Up to $5 million, used for working capital, equipment, or buying property
• 504 Loans – Used for major assets like real estate or machinery
You can also explore funding from Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which often support businesses in underserved communities.
Need help figuring out your startup costs? Check out the following tools to make estimating expenses easier:
SBDCStartupCostWorksheet
MiamiBaysideFoundationProjectionsTemplate
STEP 5
Choose The Perfect Location
Before you sign on the dotted line for a business lease, take a moment to consider the location. Your choice of address will have a profound impact on your business’s success, influencing everything from customer foot traffic to supply chain accessibility.
Before signing a lease, take time to think about your location—it can impact everything from foot traffic to how easily you get supplies.
First, check if your business is allowed in that area by reviewing the City’s planning and Zoning Map or contacting Planning & Development Services. You will want to make sure the spot fits local rules and will not lead to any surprises down the road.
Location is not just about a physical address; it’s about creating an environment that fosters your business’s growth and success. Choose wisely, and your chosen location will become the springboard for your entrepreneurial aspirations.
The following is a brief overview of the most common requirements for opening a business location:
Location isn’t just an address—it’s part of your business strategy. Choose a place that supports your goals and sets you up for growth.
Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
• Zoning: Is your business type allowed in that area?
• Permits & Licenses: You may need specific ones based on your business type.
• Inspections: Health, fire, and safety checks may apply.
• Accessibility: Ensure the space works for everyone, including people with disabilities.
• Signage: You might need a permit to install a sign. as requirements will vary depending on the location of your business
Zoning Verification Letter Inspections and Business Tax Receipts
Note: refer to appendix A- Business Development Flowchart, for an overview of the most common requirements.
STEP 6
Business/Building Permits By Building Type
Every city has its own rules when it comes to opening a business in a commercial space— and Boynton Beach is no different. You may need things like plan reviews, building permits, or business licenses at different stages of your project, from buildout to opening day.
If you’re moving into a space that was used for something else before, a change-of-use permit might be required. Sometimes this involves major renovations, other times just paperwork. It all depends on the type of business you’re opening.
Boynton Beach’s Building Code requires a permit for any change in how a space is used. This ensures the building meets safety and operational standards for your specific business type.
For example, a restaurant might need special ventilation and plumbing, while a retail shop might need extra outlets for displays.
To help you get started, here’s a quick overview of common commercial permits and reviews you might need.
• General construction: Covers the full scope of construction and ensures the project meets building and safety codes.
• HVAC: Required for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure compliance with energy and safety standards.
• Plumbing: Ensures that water supply, drainage, and sanitation systems are properly installed and meet health regulations.
• Electrical: Covers all electrical work to ensure it meets fire safety and electrical codes.
• Fire protection: Verifies that the building is equipped with proper fire alarms, suppression systems, and other fire safety measures.
• Signage: Regulates the placement, design, and size of business signage on the property.
STEP 7
Business And/Or Professional Licenses
While some businesses may operate without any licenses, you must be sure that you are equipped with the necessary permissions to operate legally. Depending on the nature of your business or service, you may need to obtain licenses from one or various agencies. Florida’s licensing landscape is overseen by three primary agencies:
• Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): The DBPR regulates a wide range of professions, including architects, engineers, contractors, and cosmetologists.
• Department of Health (DOH): The DOH oversees businesses that handle food, healthcare services, and medical devices.
• Department of Environmental Protection (DEP): The DEP regulates businesses that impact the environment, such as waste disposal facilities and industrial operations.
To simplify the licensing process, the Open My Florida Business portal serves as your one-stop shop for verifying license requirements and identifying the appropriate agency to contact. Alternatively, you can consult Appendix C of this Guide for a comprehensive list of licensing agencies.
STEP 8
Open A Business Bank Account
A dedicated business bank account is more than just a place to store your earnings. It’s a powerful tool that helps you:
Streamline financial management: Handle legal, tax, and day-today financial matters efficiently with dedicated business banking services. 01 02 03
Maintain financial clarity: Separate your personal finances from your business transactions, ensuring clear visibility into your business’s financial health.
Establish credibility: A business bank account signals professionalism and trustworthiness to potential clients, partners, and investors.
If you already have a bank loan, consider leveraging your existing lender’s commercial banking options. Their familiarity with your business can expedite the process and potentially offer preferential terms.
if you’re not tied to a specific lender, seek out a well-established financial institution with a strong reputation for serving businesses like yours. Prioritize security, compare fees and services, and ensure access to features like online banking and merchant services that align with your budget and operational needs.
STEP 10 Find The Right Talent And Navigate Employer Requirements
In Florida
Building your dream team is key to growing your business, and plenty of free resources are available to help. Online platforms like Indeed.com and ZipRecruiter can connect you with candidates who fit your needs.
For those seeking a more hands-on approach, CareerSource Palm Beach stands as a beacon of support. This federally funded organization provides a range of nocost workforce solutions, including Recruitment and Hiring Assistance, Training and Development Programs and Business Support Services.
Once you have found the right talent, have them fill out Form I-9 - Employment Eligibility Verification and Form W-4 – Employee withholding certificate. These forms help ensure proper payroll processing and compliance with tax laws.
In Florida, if you have three or more employees, you are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance and pay unemployment insurance tax. You can obtain coverage through the standard market or apply through the Florida Workers’ Compensation Joint Underwriting Association (FWCJUA).
Meeting employer requirements is not just about legal compliance—it shows your dedication to creating a safe and responsible workplace
STEP 11
Build Momentum For Your Business
Develop a targeted marketing campaign that resonates with your ideal customers. This could involve crafting a compelling brand story, creating engaging social media content on relevant platforms, and exploring local advertising options. SCORE offers several free pre-recorded webinars you can watch by filling a simple form. Webinars such as:
• Marketing Basics
• Social Media Strategies That Generate Results
• Simple Social Media Must-Do’s for Small Business Owners
Boynton Beach offers ample resources to help you reach your audience, including free one on one mentorships and Business Education Workshops. Attending these events is a fantastic way to learn about local resources, get valuable skills, network with other entrepreneurs, and showcase your business to potential clients.
You can also take advantage of the complimentary ribbon-cutting program offered to new businesses with physical locations. This official welcome ceremony, attended by elected officials and city staff, is a perfect opportunity to introduce your business to the community and receive a warm Boynton Beach welcome. customers and collaborators.
NOTE: Congratulations! Your business is officially open. Now, focus on managing and growing your business. With the resources offered in the next section.
Small Business Workshops
The City also offers free small business workshops throughout the year, featuring subject matter experts covering key topics such as marketing, funding, legal basics, and business planning. These sessions are designed to equip entrepreneurs with the tools they need to start or grow their business.
One of the signature programs is the Entrepreneur Academy—a 4-week series that guides participants through the fundamentals of launching and managing a successful business. All workshops are open to the public and free of charge.
For upcoming sessions, contact the Economic Development Division or visit its website.
Business Events & Sponsorship Opportunities
Gain visibility and connect with the local business community by participating in Cityhosted business events. Opportunities include:
• Business Over Brews – Quarterly networking meetups for local entrepreneurs.
• Small Business Summit – A half-day event focused on growth, funding, and resources.
• Boynton Beach Business Quest – A city-wide challenge promoting local businesses. Sponsorship options are available for businesses looking to increase exposure and support economic development efforts.
Learn more at: https://www.boynton-beach.org/734/ED-Events-Calendar
Doing Business with the City
After your business has been operating for at least one year, you can apply to become a registered vendor with the City of Boynton Beach.
Vendor registration opens the door to bidding on contracts, submitting quotes, and providing goods or services to the City. Local businesses are encouraged to get involved and take part in upcoming opportunities.
To get started, visit the City’s Procurement page and complete the vendor registration form with your business details, service areas, and any required licenses or certifications. https://www.boynton-beach.org/708/Procurement
Business Security
Crime Prevention Officers will respond to your business and conduct a confidential security survey. The survey will identify recommended security upgrades to help harden the home or business from burglars. This program is free to all homeowners and business owners in the City of Boynton Beach.
Also, Pursuant to Florida Statute 810.09, entering into a trespass agreement with the Boynton Beach Police Department authorizes its personnel to issue and enforce trespass warnings on behalf of the property owner or their agent. This agreement grants the Boynton Beach Police Department the authority to issue trespass warnings when the business is closed or when the owner/agent is unavailable.
For further information visit https://www.boynton-beach.org/799/Crime-Prevention
Fire & Life Safety
Our Fire & Life Safety Division offers free fire extinguisher training to any businesses or communities within the city limits of Boynton Beach. For more information, visit https:// www.boynton-beach.org/406/Fire-Life-Safety
Prepare for Emergencies
Emergencies can happen at any time and in many forms. The cost of recovery can be significant, but being prepared can help your business bounce back faster and continue operating.
Plan ahead to protect your business, employees, and assets.
For more information and resources, visit: sba.gov/prepare
City Department Contacts
CITY HALL
(561)742-6000
https://www.boynton-beach.org/
BUSINESS TAX
(561)742-6350
OLMailbox@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/269/ BTR-Business-Tax-Receipts
CITY CLERK’S OFFICE
(561)742-6060
cityclerk@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/208/ City-Clerk
BUILDING
(561)742-6350
buildingM@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/202/ Building-Department
LIBRARY CREATIVE EDGE STUDIO
(561)-742-6390
Library@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/223/ Creative-Edge-Studio
PLANNING AND ZONING
(561)742-6260
PZMailbox@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/257/ Planning-Zoning
PUBLIC WORKS
(561)742-6200
Emergency Phone: 561-742-6234 (After Hours)
PublicWorks@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/320/ Public-Works
UTILITIES
(561)742-6300
BoyntonBeachUtilities@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/279/ Utilities
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
(561)742-6205
EcoDev@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/218/ Economic-Development
RECREATION & PARKS
(561)742-6650
recparks@bbfl.us
https://www.boynton-beach.org/277/ Recreation-Parks
POLICE ADMINISTRATION
561-732-8116
FIRE RESCUE ADMINISTRATION
561-742-6329
Local Organizations and Resources of Interest
Accion Opportunity Fund: Provides microloans and other financial services to low and moderate-income entrepreneurs who are unable to access bank credit for their small business.
Amazon Black Business Accelerator: Provides access to financial support, strategic business guidance and mentorship, and marketing and promotional support.
Black Business Investment Corporation: Helps businesses owned by Black citizens including business loan guarantees, bonding, equity capital, and assistance.
Career Source Palm Beach: Provides innovative employment solutions and quality workforce services to businesses and individuals.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Regulate various businesses, such as motor vehicle repair shops, charitable organizations, pawnbrokers, health studios, sellers of travel, intrastate movers, professional surveyors and mappers, sweepstakes/ game promotions and telemarketers
Florida Export Finance Corporation: Provides assistance (financial and informational) to small business Florida exporters who have been turned down by traditions lenders.
Florida First Capital Finance: Provides eligible small business owners long-term financing to buy or build commercial property and/or purchase fixed heavy duty machinery and equipment
Florida Health Licensing and Regulation: Provides information relating to professional, facility, and permit licensing by this department along with information on enforcement
Florida Small Business Development Services (SBDC) at FAU: Offers high-level consulting and training to small and medium-sized Businesses.
Florida Women’s Business Center: Assists women in achieving their dreams by helping them start, run, and grow successful businesses.
Hispanic Unity of Florida: Offers entrepreneurship education and support for many who are looking to start or reinvent their current businesses.
JimMoranInstituteforGlobal Entrepreneurship: cultivates, trains and inspires entrepreneurial leaders through free world-class executive education.
PalmBeachCountyOffceofEqual BusinessOpportunity: Access to resources, tools, and technical assistance for start-ups and existing businesses
PoweringFlorida: The Small Business Tools portal offers market research and business intelligence to help business owners make smarter decisions.
ProsperaUSA:Specializes in providing bilingual assistance to Hispanic entrepreneurs trying to establish or expand their business in Florida.
SCORE: Provides free small business mentorship and workshops.
SmallBusinessAdministration: Provides financial, technical, and management assistance to help you start and grow your business.
SouthFloridaRegionalPlanningCouncil RevolvingLoanFund: Offers loans for small to medium sized businesses.
State of Florida Division of Corporations: Online information, filing services, research and electronic processing service center.
Appendix C
Starting a Business in Boynton Beach Checklist
As you have learned by now, launching a business involves a series of important decisions and actions. This checklist is designed to keep you on track as you move through each essential step—helping you stay organized, focused, and ready to bring your business to life.
Plan your business blueprint with a BusinessModelCanvas(BMC)
Choose a business structure on Sunbiz
Name and register your business, get your state and federal taxIDnumbers
Fund your business, calculate your startupexpenses
Choose the perfect location, check if your business is allowedinthearea
Check your business and building permits
Get all your business and/or professional licenses
Open a business bank account
Get business insurance
Find and register the right talent
Build momentum for your business and schedule a ribboncutting
Appendix D
RateyourBusinessName
Your business name is more than a label — it’s the foundation of your brand. Use the checklist below to evaluate your top name ideas and choose the strongest option for your venture.
Name:
Originality (Unique, stands out)
Availability (Sunbiz, domain, social media)
Clarity (Easy to say, spell, and remember)
Relevance (Reflects your product/service)
Flexibility (Grows with your business over time)
Name:
Name:
Tips:
Originality (Unique, stands out) Availability (Sunbiz, domain, social media) Clarity (Easy to say, spell, and remember) Relevance (Reflects your product/service)
Flexibility (Grows with your business over time)
Originality (Unique, stands out)
Availability (Sunbiz, domain, social media)
Clarity (Easy to say, spell, and remember)
Relevance (Reflects your product/service)
Flexibility (Grows with your business over time)
• Checkavailabilityat sunbiz.organd domain registrars like GoDaddy or Namecheap.
• Keep it shortandmemorable.
• Avoid names that are toosimilar to existing businesses in your industry.
• Test your name with others for firstimpressions.
Naming your business well is a key step in building a brand that lasts — use this tool to make a thoughtful, strategic choice.