Start a pressure washing business in Florida
Florida does not require a state DBPR contractor license for standard exterior pressure washing or soft washing of driveways, sidewalks, decks, and siding, provided you do not perform structural roof repairs, painting, or waterproofing regulated under Chapter 489. However, you do need a Local Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from your county tax collector and municipality under Chapter 205, Florida Statutes, and most commercial property managers and HOAs require an active Florida LLC, a federal EIN, general liability insurance, and a Florida Workers' Compensation Exemption certificate (Chapter 440).
Verified against the Florida Division of Corporations on Oct 21, 2026
- Form your Florida LLC on Sunbiz: $125 state fee, to separate personal assets from property-damage claims.
- Obtain your federal IRS EIN: and open a business bank account.
- Apply for an LLC member workers' comp exemption: on myfloridacfo.com ($0 non-construction / $50 if classified under construction).
- Obtain your county and municipal Business Tax Receipt: under Chapter 205.
- Get insured and follow local rules: general liability insurance and county stormwater runoff rules.
| Item | Who issues it | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Florida LLC Articles of Organization + RA Designation | Sunbiz | $125 |
| Federal IRS EIN | IRS | $0 ($149 if we file it) |
| LLC Member Workers' Comp Exemption (Ch. 440) | Florida DWC | $0 or $50 |
| County / City Business Tax Receipt (Ch. 205) | County & city | Varies by location |
| Annual Sunbiz Report (Following Year by May 1) | Sunbiz | $138.75 |
When Pressure Washing Does (and Does Not) Require a Contractor License
Cleaning surfaces is generally not contracting. Work that repairs roofs, applies coatings or paint, or waterproofs structures can fall under Chapter 489 licensing — check with DBPR before offering it.
Confirm with DBPR before adding roof, paint or sealing services.
Why HOAs and Commercial Clients Require an LLC & Workers' Comp Exemption
Property managers usually ask vendors for a certificate of insurance in the company's name and proof of workers' comp coverage or exemption. An active LLC makes those documents line up.
- Local business taxes are governed by Chapter 205. Official source
- Workers' comp exemptions are filed with the Division of Workers' Compensation. Official source
- A new Florida LLC costs $125 in state fees. Official source
Corp USA is not a law firm and does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. We are a document filing service. Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice, consult a licensed attorney.
Do you need a license to pressure wash in Florida?
Not a state contractor license for basic exterior cleaning, but you need local Business Tax Receipts.
Can I pressure wash roofs in Florida without a roofing license?
Cleaning may not require one, but repairs, coatings or sealing can. Confirm with DBPR before offering roof services.
Do I charge Florida sales tax on pressure washing services?
Rules depend on the property and service; check with the Florida Department of Revenue for your situation.
Why should I form an LLC before buying pressure washing insurance?
So the policy is issued in the LLC's exact Sunbiz name, which clients expect to match your contracts.