Okeechobee County, Florida offers a unique blend of rural charm, natural beauty, and economic opportunity. With its scenic landscapes surrounding Lake Okeechobee, the county is not only a hub for outdoor tourism but also a growing center for agriculture, small business, and innovative industries.
Okeechobee County offers a strategic location in south-central Florida, characterized by its natural beauty, strong agricultural base, and close-knit communities. Whether you’re looking to start a business in Okeechobee City, Buckhead Ridge, or Brighton, the county provides ample opportunities across various sectors such as agriculture, tourism, retail, and services. With affordable real estate, access to major transportation routes, and a welcoming business environment, Okeechobee County is a fantastic place to establish and grow a business
See Also: Florida Start-up Business Hub
In this guide, we’ll explore the steps to start a business in Okeechobee County, including regulatory requirements, local contacts, and business ideas suited for the area.
Starting a Business in Okeechobee County, Florida
- Why Okeechobee ?
- Top Cities: Okeechobee City, Buckhead Ridge, Brighton
- Setting Up Your Business with the State of Florida
- Setting Up Your Business in County
- Setting Up Your Business Stuff
Why Okeechobee ?
Okeechobee County’s strong sense of community, low cost of living, and pro-business policies create the perfect conditions for both small startups and expanding enterprises. From catering to the county’s agricultural base to serving the ever-growing number of tourists, businesses in Okeechobee benefit from a steady flow of local and visitor demand.
Its strategic location, within driving distance of major cities like Orlando, Miami, and Tampa, makes it a desirable spot for entrepreneurs looking for a supportive, cost-effective environment to grow their business.
Whether you’re opening a storefront, launching an online business, or offering services tailored to this vibrant region, Okeechobee County provides the resources and support you need to succeed.
Top Cities in Okeechobee County for Business
Okeechobee City: The Heart of the County
Okeechobee City, the county seat, is the central hub of commerce, government, and services in the county. This city offers a unique blend of agricultural and tourism-based business opportunities, especially with its proximity to Lake Okeechobee. The lake attracts thousands of anglers, boaters, and nature enthusiasts annually, creating a demand for businesses in hospitality, retail, and outdoor recreation. Okeechobee City’s central location along U.S. Highway 441 provides excellent access to larger markets in Florida, and its quaint downtown district offers a variety of locations for retail, dining, and professional services. Additionally, the local government offers incentives and support for businesses seeking to establish themselves in this growing area.
Buckhead Ridge: A Community with Rural Charm
Buckhead Ridge is a rural, close-knit community located along the western shores of Lake Okeechobee. Known for its peaceful surroundings and strong ties to agriculture and fishing, Buckhead Ridge is an ideal location for businesses focused on outdoor recreation, agriculture, and small-scale retail operations. The area is popular among boaters and fishermen, meaning opportunities exist for businesses related to fishing gear, boat rentals, and waterside restaurants. Its proximity to Lake Okeechobee and the nearby cities also means Buckhead Ridge can serve as a hub for rural tourism and agritourism ventures.
Brighton: A Growing Community with Cultural Significance
Brighton, located in the southeastern part of Okeechobee County, is home to the Seminole Tribe of Florida and offers a unique cultural and economic environment for businesses. Known for its agricultural land, Brighton is a great location for businesses in the agricultural sector, including farming, ranching, and agribusinesses. The presence of the Seminole Tribe also opens up opportunities in cultural tourism, arts, and craft-based industries. Brighton is becoming an increasingly attractive area for entrepreneurs due to its economic growth and close community ties, with various incentives for businesses seeking to tap into the region’s cultural and agricultural heritage.
Setting up Your Business with the State of Florida
There are several steps to set up your business in the State of Florida which are requirements across the state.
One of the easiest ways to set up your business is by using a registered agent service (It’s surprisingly easy and afforable!)
If you want to do it yourself, here’s a brief overview. (You can also read our complete step by step guide to registering your LLC yourself in Florida here)
Register Your Business Entity
Begin by registering your business with the Florida Division of Corporations Sunbiz website. This process establishes your business legally within the state.
Start by searching Sunbiz to be sure your desired name is available. Then you can choose to file online or download a print copy to mail in.
Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or simply (EIN)
Apply for a EIN through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This number is necessary for tax purposes and to hire employees.
Register with the Florida Department of Revenue (if applicable)
In Florida, you will need to check with the Florida Department of Revenue website to register for sales tax, unemployment tax and employer withholding tax (if applicable to your business)
Acquire Necessary State Licenses or Permits
Depending on your industry, you may need specific state licenses. For instance, businesses in healthcare, construction, or food services require additional permits and professional services such as real estate, financial services, etc may require specific licenses. Consult the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation for detailed information.
Setting up Your Business in Okeechobee County
Okeechobee County-Specific Regulations
Business Tax Receipt
A Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR) is required for all businesses in Okeechobee County:
- Apply through the Okeechobee County Tax Collector’s Office (Link).
- Businesses operating within the city limits of Okeechobee may also need a city-specific tax receipt.
Zoning and Permits
- Verify that your business location complies with local zoning regulations.
- Contact the Okeechobee County Planning and Development Department (Link) for assistance with permits and inspections.
Health and Safety Permits
- Businesses in food service, healthcare, or hospitality must adhere to health codes enforced by the Florida Department of Health in Okeechobee County (okeechobee.floridahealth.gov).
Local Resources & Ongoing Education for Entrepreneurs
Always be learning, that’s my motto. As an entrepreneur and small business owner, it is important to get the training you need to be the best at managing a company. Okeechobee County offers several resources to help your online business succeed and there are courses and training programs available locally.
- Okeechobee Economic Council (okeechobeebusiness.com): Offers support for business development and economic growth.
- Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce (okeechobeebusiness.com/chamber): Provides networking opportunities, advocacy, and community engagement.
- SCORE Treasure Coast (score.org): Free business mentorship and workshops.
- Prospera (prosperausa.org): Specialized assistance for Hispanic entrepreneurs.
- Divergent-U: Want to jumpstart your business? Learn to think divergently as you build your business with one-on-one business and personal guidance along the way. (divergent-u.com)
Local Contacts
Okeechobee – Doing Business, Building and Permitting, Business License, Code Enforcement, Economic Development, Planning and Zoning, Property Appraiser, Tax Collector
City Governments
Setting Up Your Business Stuff
Open a Business Bank Account
Keep personal and business finances separate by opening a dedicated business bank account. This is essential for bookkeeping and legal protection. Check out some online banks that offer free checking for businesses: Novo, Found, and Mercury are good options.
Set up a Business Merchant Account – Accept Credit Cards
The easiest way to accept payments is setting up a Stripe account. It is really easy to do, simply add all of your business information and attach to your bank account and you are good to go. Stripe may need a few days to verify your information.
Get Business Insurance
You may be required to get insurance for certain industries, particularly if you are selling a product, opening a physical location, or hiring employees. Online businesses should also consider insurance for liability protection. See What Every Florida Entrepreneur Should Know About Business Insurance
Setting Up Your Financials
Focus on setting up a budget and how to manage your accounting. See Essential Budgeting Tips for First-Time Entrepreneurs in Florida
Setting up Your Workspace
Whether you are establishing a physical location or setting up your home workspace, be sure to make sure it has everything you need to function without stress in a comfortable environment.
Marketing & Promotion
Now is the time to really sit down and strategize how you will reach your target audience and gain sales. Building a professional website that showcases your business, creating social media profiles (scheduling posts and being active on social), and putting out a press release , starting an email campaign, are all good first steps. Local or online networking is also helpful when you are starting out to let people know you are in business.
Ongoing Education
Always be learning, that’s my motto. As an entrepreneur and small business owner, it is important to get the training you need to be the best at managing a company.
Managing Your Work-Life Balance
Now that you have everything set up, it’s important to plan and journal to be sure you are keeping a balance between you work, family, friends and self-care.
Visit the Florida Start-Up Business Hub to learn more about starting and growing a business in Florida
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