Zoning regulations, permit requirements, and restrictions for running a business from your home in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Selling Homemade Food in Florida (Cottage Food Law)
If your home business involves selling food, Florida's cottage food law sets separate, statewide rules that apply on top of Florida's local zoning. Here is the verified current picture:
| Annual sales limit | $250,000/yr in gross sales. |
| Permit / registration | Not required |
| Where you can sell | Direct and some indirect/retail sales |
| Labeling required | Yes |
Florida's 'Home Sweet Home Act' (2021) set the cap at $250,000 and allows online sales, mail shipment, and statewide operation without local restriction. No state food permit required.
Source: fdacs.gov
· Verified 2026-08-25
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to run a business from home in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Yes, Fort Lauderdale requires a home occupation permit. Contact your local planning/zoning department to apply.
Can I have employees work at my home business in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale allows up to 1 non-resident employee(s) for home-based businesses. Additional restrictions may apply.
What types of businesses can I run from home in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Most business types are allowed as home occupations in Fort Lauderdale, with specific exceptions including: Auto repair or body work, Medical or dental offices with walk-in patients, Restaurants or food service with on-site dining, Retail sales with customer foot traffic, Welding or machining, Animal hospitals or kennels. The business must remain secondary to the residential use of the property.
Can I put a sign for my home business in Fort Lauderdale?
No, Fort Lauderdale does not permit exterior signage for home-based businesses.