Licensing – Frequently Asked Questions
Classification: Service
KBA Code: KBA-015
Last Updated: 4/22/2024
Description
General
How do I verify that a contractor is licensed?
There are four ways to verify a license:
Searching the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's website at www.MyFloridaLicense.com
Calling Florida DBPR at 850-487-1395.
Searching Community Development's Online ServicesCitizen Access Portal webpage Online Services | Charlotte County, FL (charlottecountyfl.gov).
Contacting Community Development at 941-743-1201 or [email protected].
How do I file a complaint about my contractor?
To file a complaint about your contractor, an owner needs to provide documentation such as a copy of the contract, proof of payment, and proof that the owner sent a letter to the contractor giving written notice of the nature of the complaint and giving the contractor an opportunity to resolve. The notice letter is required by Florida Statute FS 558.004 (a notice letter is not required if the contractor is unlicensed). If still not resolved after giving written notice, then visit Unlicensed Contractors & Contractor Complaints | Charlotte County, FL (charlottecountyfl.gov) to download the Uniform Complaint Form. Complete the form and deliver by mail, with the required documentation to Community Development, 18400 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte, FL 33948.,
If there are any questions about the procedure or the documentation, call 941-743-1201 and speak to a customer service specialist or contact the licensing manager at 941-623-1007.
Where do I obtain a local business tax receipt?
A local business tax receipt (previously known as an occupational license) is obtained from the Charlotte County Tax Collector's office. The office can be reached 941-743-1350 and its website is http://taxcollector.charlottecountyfl.gov/.
Where do I obtain a Handyman's license?
Charlotte County does not issue license for handymen. However, a Local Business Tax Receipt (previously known as Occupational License) is required to be obtained. This is issued by the Charlotte County Tax Collector's office. It will require a signature on a form that explains what a handyman can or cannot perform. The Tax Collector's office can be reached 941-743-1350 and the office's website is https://taxcollector.charlottecountyfl.gov. In addition, if the handyman lives in Charlotte County, a Minor Home Occupation must be applied for and approved. Please contact the Zoning Office at 941-764-1964 for the Minor Home Occupation process and information.
How do I obtain a contractor license?
Does a locally licensed contractor have to re-register if they don't renew or cancel their license (note: this does not apply to State certified licensed contractors as the fee does not apply due to a state law change)?
The locally licensed contractor may keep paying the $50/year registration fee and remain inactive. If they want to renew, they can. However, if they cancel it and never keep up the registration payment, then when and if they return to renew their license, they must start from the beginning to re-register with the county.
Can a licensed roof contractor do soffits?
No, they cannot as it is out of the scope of their license.