Fort Lauderdale launches new Certificate of Use program on October 1 with new requirements for local businesses

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – The City of Fort Lauderdale is preparing to introduce a new Certificate of Use program that will change an important part of the process for businesses operating in the city. The program officially launches on October 1, 2026, and will apply to both new businesses and certain existing businesses.

Under the new rules, anyone opening a new business in Fort Lauderdale will need to obtain a Certificate of Use, commonly called a CU, before applying for a Business Tax Receipt. The new requirement is intended to confirm that a business is allowed to operate at its chosen location and meets the city’s applicable requirements.

The program will not apply only to businesses that are just getting started. Existing businesses may also need to obtain a CU when certain changes take place. These situations include a change in ownership, moving the business to another location, or making changes to the way the business operates.

Changes involving the business space can also trigger the requirement. Businesses that modify their space or operations may need to go through the Certificate of Use process to make sure the updated activity remains permitted at the location.

Read also: Hollywood suspends parking fees at city-operated beach garages for local residents

The city says the program is designed to verify that businesses can legally and appropriately operate at specific locations. The process provides a way for the city to review the proposed business activity and determine whether it meets local requirements before the business moves forward with other licensing steps.

For business owners, one of the main changes will be the need to include the Certificate of Use in the process before obtaining a Business Tax Receipt. This means new businesses should take the additional step into account when preparing to open.

Applications for the Certificate of Use can be submitted online through LauderBuild, the city’s online platform for development and permitting services. Business owners can use the system to begin the application process without having to rely entirely on in-person services.

Read also: Superintendent Hepburn to host town hall meetings on the state of Broward County Public Schools

The CU requirement may also come into play when a business is dealing with a notice violation. In those cases, an existing business may be required to obtain a Certificate of Use as part of addressing the issue.

Fort Lauderdale is providing additional information to help businesses understand the new program before it takes effect. Business owners who may be affected are encouraged to review the requirements and application process ahead of the October 1 launch date.

More information about the new Certificate of Use requirements and instructions for applying online is available through the city at ftlcity.info/CU.