For a coffee shop license in Florida, secure the correct regulator first: if you brew coffee or serve ready‑to‑eat items for on‑premise consumption, apply to DBPR’s Division of Hotels & Restaurants for a food service license (Seating or Non‑Seating); if you only sell sealed, prepackaged foods/beans with no preparation, get an FDACS Retail Food permit instead. For DBPR, submit a plan review before construction/remodel (floor plan, equipment list, plumbing, ventilation, restrooms); install a hand sink at each prep area, a 3‑compartment sink or approved dishwasher, hot water at 100–110°F for handwashing, a mop/service sink, adequate refrigeration, and grease control per utility. Obtain zoning approval, Certificate of Use/Occupancy, fire inspection, signage permits, and a municipal/county business tax receipt; register your entity and fictitious name with Sunbiz, get an EIN, and file Florida DR‑1 for a sales tax certificate. Designate at least one Certified Food Manager and enroll staff in DBPR‑approved food handler training within 60 days; keep temperature logs, sanitizer test strips, and written cleaning schedules. If offering beer/wine, apply to ABT for a 2COP license; outdoor seating may need a sidewalk café permit. Typical timelines: plan review ~30 days; final inspection scheduled after equipment is installed and utilities are active.
