Chiropractic Permits & Licenses in Miami, Florida

Complete guide to permits and licenses required to start a chiropractic in Miami, Florida. Fees, renewal cycles, and agency contacts.

Florida Sales Tax on Tangible Medical Supplies

Florida Department of Revenue
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic services are exempt from sales tax. However, sale of non-exempt medical devices (e.g., back supports, orthotics not custom-fitted) may be taxable. Prescription by a licensed chiropractor may qualify for exemption under certain conditions.

Florida Chiropractic License Renewal

Florida Department of Health, Board of Chiropractic Medicine
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$150.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Must complete 40 hours of approved continuing education, including 2 hours in medical errors prevention and 2 in domestic violence.

County Business Tax Receipt (Occupational License)

Miami-Dade County Tax Collector
Required
Fee: $100.00-$1000.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Required in all Florida counties; apply through county tax collector. Specific fee schedules on county tax collector sites (e.g., Miami-Dade: https://www.miamidade.gov/taxcollector/business_tax_receipts.asp)

City Business Tax Receipt

Varies by city (e.g., Miami-Dade County)
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$500.00
Renewal: annual
Type: license

Many cities require separate city BTR in addition to county (e.g., Jacksonville: https://www.jacksonville.gov/departments/finance-and-administration/customer-service/business-tax). Confirm with specific city clerk.

Zoning Compliance / Certificate of Use

County or City Planning/Zoning Department
Required
Fee: $40.00-$200.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic offices typically allowed in commercial (C-1/C-2) or professional office (PO) zones. Home-based may require home occupation permit if compliant (e.g., Orange County: https://www.orangecountyfl.net/Zoning/HomeOccupations.aspx).

Home Occupation Permit

County Zoning Department
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Limited clients/day, no external signage; chiropractic may qualify if low-impact (not all counties allow professional services at home).

Building Permit for Interior Modifications

County or City Building Department
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$1000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required for office build-out (e.g., Hillsborough County: https://hcfl.gov/residents/property-owners-and-renters/building-and-growth-management/permitting).

Sign Permit

Local Sign/Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $75.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Size/type restrictions per zoning district (e.g., max 32 sq ft for professional offices in many areas).

Fire Safety Inspection / Permit

Local Fire Marshal
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$300.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Required for chiropractic clinics with treatment rooms (e.g., Palm Beach County: https://discover.pbc.gov/pbcflfire/Pages/FirePrevention.aspx).

Certificate of Occupancy

Local Building Department
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Confirms zoning, building, fire compliance.

Burglar Alarm Permit

County or City Police Department
May Apply
Fee: $30.00-$100.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

False alarm ordinances in most counties (e.g., Pinellas: https://pinellas.gov/alarm-registration/).

Health Department Permit (Public Health)

Florida Department of Health - County Health Department
May Apply
Fee: $100.00-$300.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Generally not required for chiropractic unless ancillary services like hydrotherapy; confirm with local DOH.

Florida LLC Articles of Organization Filing

Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations
Required
Fee: $125.00-$125.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required for all LLCs. Annual report required separately (see below).

Florida LLC Annual Report

Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations
Required
Fee: $138.75-$138.75
Renewal: annual
Type: registration

Applies to all Florida LLCs. Fee unchanged as of 2024.

Chiropractic Physician License

Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine, Department of Health
Required
Fee: $305.00-$305.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

Requires graduation from CCE-accredited chiropractic college, passage of NBCE Parts I-IV exams, Florida laws/exam, and background check. Applies to practitioners, not entity.

Chiropractic Establishment Permit

Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine, Department of Health
Required
Fee: $251.00-$251.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

Required for each physical location where chiropractic services provided. Must designate licensed supervising chiropractor. Premises inspected.

Fictitious Name Registration (DBA)

Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$50.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required if business operates under assumed/DBA name. Renews every 5 years ($50). County publication may also apply locally.

Re-Establishment of Injured Spinal Relationships Certification (if offering physiotherapy)

Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine, Department of Health
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

60-hour board-approved course required for physicians. Most chiropractors obtain this.

Florida Sales Tax Permit (if applicable)

Florida Department of Revenue
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Chiropractic services are generally exempt from Florida sales tax. However, tangible personal property sold (e.g., therapeutic devices) may be subject to 6% state sales tax. Registration required only if making taxable sales.

Florida Corporate Income Tax Registration

Florida Department of Revenue (FL DOR)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Florida does not impose a corporate income tax on pass-through entities (e.g., default LLCs taxed as disregarded entities or partnerships). Applies only if the LLC has elected corporate tax treatment and meets filing thresholds.

Florida Employer Withholding Tax Registration

Florida Department of Revenue (FL DOR)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Required for all employers in Florida who withhold state income tax (though Florida has no state income tax, this applies to federal withholding compliance and reporting). Registration also supports compliance with federal Form W-4 requirements and IRS reporting.

Florida Unemployment Insurance Tax Registration

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

All employers with employees in Florida must register for Reemployment Assistance (unemployment insurance). New employers pay a standard rate of 2.7% on the first $7,000 of each employee’s wages annually until experience rating is established.

Parking Validation (Site Plan Approval)

County or City Planning Department
May Apply
Fee: $500.00-$500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Part of zoning/site plan review.

Fire Marshal Permit / Occupancy Approval

County Fire Marshal (e.g., Miami-Dade Fire Rescue)
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$200.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Required for chiropractic clinics with treatment rooms. Mandatory before Certificate of Occupancy is issued.

Workers' Compensation Insurance

Florida Division of Workers' Compensation, Florida Department of Financial Services
May Apply
Fee: $1.50-$3.50
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Exempt if sole proprietor with no employees. Chiropractors who employ staff (e.g., assistants, receptionists) must carry coverage. Applies to all businesses in Florida with employees, not just chiropractic. Mandated under Florida Statutes §440.10 and §440.505.

General Liability Insurance

Not mandated by state law
Required
Fee: $500.00-$1500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not legally mandated by Florida state law for chiropractic practices specifically, but strongly recommended. May be contractually required by lease agreements or service contracts. Considered standard risk management for patient injury claims (e.g., slips and falls).

Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions)

Florida Office of Insurance Regulation
Required
Fee: $750.00-$2000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not currently mandated by Florida law for licensure, but highly recommended and often required by hospitals, clinics, or third-party payers. The Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine does not require proof of malpractice insurance to obtain or renew a license. However, failure to carry coverage may expose the practitioner to personal liability in malpractice claims.

Commercial Auto Insurance

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
May Apply
Fee: $1200.00-$2500.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Required under Florida Statute §324.021 for all motor vehicles registered in Florida. Applies if the chiropractic LLC owns or leases a vehicle used for business purposes (e.g., mobile chiropractic services, equipment transport). Personal auto policies do not cover business use.

Surety Bond (Not Required for Chiropractors in Florida)

Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Florida does not require a surety bond (license bond) for chiropractic licensure or LLC registration. Licensing is based on education, examination, and fees, not bonding. This differs from certain trades or contractors.

Product Liability Insurance

Not mandated by state law
May Apply
Fee: $1000.00-$3000.00
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Not mandated by Florida law, but strongly recommended if the chiropractic practice sells or dispenses products to patients. General liability policies often exclude product liability unless specifically endorsed. Common products include orthotics, nutritional supplements, and TENS units.

Liquor Liability Insurance

Not applicable
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: certificate

Only applicable if the chiropractic business hosts events where alcohol is served or sold. Most chiropractic offices do not serve alcohol; therefore, this is not typically required. If applicable, a liquor license from ABT would be required, along with liability insurance.

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Required for all LLCs, including single-member LLCs that elect to be taxed as corporations or have employees. Even if not required, it is recommended for opening business bank accounts. Chiropractic practices must have an EIN to report payroll taxes if they have employees.

HIPAA Annual Training and Documentation

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$200.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

HIPAA requires all workforce members (including owners) to receive annual training on privacy and security policies. Documentation of training must be retained for six years. Required under 45 CFR §164.530(b).

HIPAA Security Risk Assessment (SRA)

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$1000.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Covered entities must conduct an annual security risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities in ePHI systems. Required under HIPAA Security Rule (45 CFR §164.308(a)(1)). Documentation must be retained for six years.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Florida Department of Financial Services
May Apply
Fee: $500.00-$1500.00
Renewal: annual
Type: certificate

Florida requires all employers with four or more employees (full- or part-time) to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Chiropractic employers with fewer than four employees are exempt unless they are construction-related.

Florida Franchise Tax (Repealed)

Florida Department of Revenue
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Florida repealed its corporate franchise tax effective January 1, 2018. No franchise or gross receipts tax is currently imposed on LLCs or corporations for the privilege of doing business in Florida.

Local Business Tax Receipt (Occupational License)

County or Municipal Government
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$300.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

All Florida counties and many municipalities require a Business Tax Receipt (BTR) for chiropractic practices. This is not a state tax but a local privilege to do business. Fees vary by location and number of employees. Must be renewed annually.

Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: registration

Even single-member LLCs may need an EIN for banking or tax purposes. Obtained via IRS Form SS-4 or online application. Not required for sole proprietors with no employees, but recommended for LLCs.

Federal income and self-employment tax obligations for LLC

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

A single-member LLC is disregarded for federal tax purposes and reports income on Schedule C (Form 1040). Multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships and must file Form 1065. Chiropractors are subject to self-employment tax (15.3%) on net earnings. This applies regardless of practice size.

OSHA General Duty Clause compliance

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Applies to chiropractic clinics with employees. Employers must provide a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious harm. Specific requirements include bloodborne pathogens training (29 CFR 1910.1030) if handling sharps (e.g., acupuncture needles), hazard communication (29 CFR 1910.1200) for chemicals, and injury recordkeeping (OSHA Form 300/301/300A) for businesses with 11+ employees.

ADA Title III Compliance for Public Accommodations

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All chiropractic offices open to the public must comply with ADA Title III, including physical access (ramps, door widths, restroom accessibility), accessible websites (per DOJ guidance), and policies for service animals. Applies regardless of number of employees or practice size.

EPA Medical Waste Regulations (if applicable)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Federal regulations under RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) apply only if the chiropractic practice generates hazardous waste (e.g., from acupuncture with needle use, chemical sterilants). Most standard chiropractic practices do not generate federally regulated hazardous waste. Non-hazardous medical waste (e.g., gloves, gauze) is regulated at the state level (Florida Department of Health).

FTC Compliance with Advertising and Consumer Protection Laws

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractic businesses must ensure advertising is truthful and not misleading under FTC Act Section 5. This includes online claims about treatment efficacy, testimonials, and before/after images. The FTC has taken action against chiropractors for unsubstantiated claims. Applies to all marketing materials, including websites and social media.

DOL I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) / USCIS
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All employers, including chiropractic LLCs, must complete Form I-9 for each employee to verify identity and work authorization. Employers must retain forms for 3 years after hire or 1 year after employment ends, whichever is later. Applies to all U.S. employers.

DOL Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Compliance

U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Applies to chiropractic practices with employees. Requires payment of federal minimum wage ($7.25/hr), overtime (1.5x regular rate after 40 hours/week), and proper recordkeeping. Exemptions may apply for licensed chiropractors classified as professionals. Applies regardless of practice size if employees are present.

DOL Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Compliance

Department of Labor (DOL)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Requires eligible employees to be granted up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying medical or family reasons. Only applies to chiropractic practices meeting the 50-employee threshold within a 75-mile radius. Most small practices are exempt.

FDA Regulation of Medical Devices Used in Chiropractic Practice

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractors using FDA-regulated Class I, II, or III devices (e.g., TENS units, X-ray machines) must use them in accordance with labeling and applicable regulations. The practice is not required to register as a manufacturer unless it modifies or reconditions devices. However, misuse (e.g., off-label use) may trigger enforcement.

Federal Reporting of Payments to Corporations (Form 1099-NEC)

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Renewal: one time
Type: filing

Required if the LLC pays $600 or more to a non-employee service provider (e.g., massage therapist, billing consultant). Applies regardless of business type. Form 1099-NEC must be issued to the recipient and filed with the IRS.

Business Tax Receipt (Local)

Local County Tax Collector (e.g., Miami-Dade, Orange County)
May Apply
Fee: $50.00-$200.00
Renewal: annual
Type: permit

Most Florida counties and cities require a local business tax receipt (commonly called a 'business license') to operate. This is separate from state licensing. Fees and deadlines vary by jurisdiction. Must be renewed annually.

Annual Report for LLC

Florida Division of Corporations (Sunbiz)
Required
Fee: $138.75-$138.75
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All Florida LLCs must file an Annual Report each year by May 31 to remain active. The report includes business address, registered agent, and management information. Filing is done online via Sunbiz.org.

Continuing Education (CE) Requirement for Chiropractors

Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine
Required
Fee: $100.00-$500.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: certificate

Chiropractors must complete 26 hours of board-approved continuing education every two years, including 2 hours in Florida laws and rules, 2 hours in infection control, and 2 hours in prevention of medical errors. CE must be completed prior to license renewal.

Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) – Annual Tax Filings

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
May Apply
Fee: $200.00-$500.00
Renewal: annual
Type: filing

LLCs taxed as S-corps must file Form 1120-S annually. Employers must file Form 941 (quarterly federal tax return) and Form 940 (Federal Unemployment Tax) annually. Deadlines depend on tax classification and payroll activity.

Florida Sales Tax License Renewal

Florida Department of Revenue
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: biennial
Type: license

Chiropractic services are generally exempt from Florida sales tax, but sale of tangible goods (e.g., braces, supplements) may be taxable. Businesses collecting sales tax must register and file returns on a schedule assigned by DOR.

OSHA Poster Display (Federal)

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Employers must display the OSHA Job Safety and Health – It's the Law poster (OSHA 3165) in a prominent location accessible to employees. Available for free download from OSHA website.

Florida Labor Law Posters

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Employers in Florida must display current state and federal labor law posters, including Minimum Wage, Equal Employment Opportunity, and Workers’ Compensation notices. The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity provides a combined poster.

Display of Chiropractic License

Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine
Required
Fee: $0.00-$0.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Florida law requires that the current, unexpired license of the practicing chiropractor be conspicuously displayed in the office. This applies to all locations where services are rendered.

Fire Safety Inspection

Local Fire Marshal (e.g., County Fire Rescue)
May Apply
Fee: $0.00-$150.00
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

All commercial buildings in Florida, including chiropractic offices, are subject to annual fire safety inspections. The inspection ensures compliance with fire exits, extinguishers, alarms, and occupancy load. Conducted by local fire department or state fire marshal.

Medical Record Retention

Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine
Required
Renewal: one time
Type: permit

Chiropractors must retain patient records for at least five years from the date of last service. For minors, records must be kept for five years after the patient turns 18. Records must be available for inspection by the Board upon request.

Step-by-Step Compliance Guide

  1. First, obtain a Chiropractic Physician License from the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine, which currently costs $305 and renews biennially.
  2. Next, secure a Chiropractic Establishment Permit from the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine, with a fee of $251 and biennial renewal.
  3. Ensure your advertising claims are compliant with FTC regulations regarding chiropractic services; this is a one-time requirement with no fee.
  4. Comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title III requirements for public accommodations, with costs potentially ranging from $1500 to $5000 for initial compliance.
  5. File all required federal income and self-employment taxes with the IRS, as this is an ongoing, one-time requirement with varying fees.
  6. Maintain proper business records as required by the IRS, which is a one-time compliance need with no associated fee.
  7. File a Florida LLC Annual Report with the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, for an annual fee of $138.75.
  8. Adhere to medical record retention requirements as mandated by the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine, which has varying costs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Failing to obtain a Chiropractic Physician License before practicing in Florida can result in penalties from the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine.
  • Ignoring ADA Title III compliance can lead to lawsuits and fines from the U.S. Department of Justice.
  • Neglecting to file federal income taxes with the IRS can result in significant penalties and legal issues.
  • Assuming Professional Liability/Errors and Omissions insurance is optional when it is a requirement for chiropractic practices.
  • Overlooking the Florida LLC Annual Report requirement can lead to administrative dissolution of your business by the Florida Department of State.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the implications of not filing my Florida LLC Annual Report?

Failure to file your Florida LLC Annual Report with the Florida Department of State can result in administrative dissolution of your LLC, preventing you from legally conducting business.

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