The Business Tax Receipt is a part of the Code Compliance Division within the Planning and Development Department, which is responsible for the issuance and maintenance of all Business Tax Receipts within the city of Clearwater, as defined through Chapter 29 of the Code of Ordinances. The business tax year is from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30 and renews annually regardless of when the BTR is obtained.
The city requires different supporting documentation, approvals and fees depending on the type of business and location where it is operating. Applications can be submitted online.
If you are operating without a BTR, you can be cited by a city inspector, given a Notice to Appear before the County Court, or a Notice of Violation can be given resulting in an appearance before the city's Municipal Code Enforcement Board. Failure to comply can result in fines or liens.
BTR application types are provided below.
- Business Tax Receipt: Required for all businesses located within the city limits of Clearwater prior to opening a business or practicing a profession.
- Business Registration: Required if your business is located outside of the city limits of Clearwater, but you will be transacting business within the city limits.
- Home-Based Business: Requires a BTR plus an additional affidavit.
- Residential Rental: Requires additional information as part of the BTR application.
To apply for a business tax receipt, see the steps below. You can renew online or by mail if there are no changes to the:
- Business address
- Business name
- Business ownership
- Mailing address
Contact the BTR department for direction on your specific requirements.
Payment can be made online. The following payment types are accepted with no service charge: Check, Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Email supporting documents and completed forms to: BTR@myclearwater.com