Start Up Directory: Nassau County
At the heart of every vibrant community is the spirit of entrepreneurship, and Nassau County is no exception. We are proud to introduce the Nassau County Start Up Directory - your definitive guide to launching a business in the county.
Whether you’re a visionary with a fresh idea, or an established business owner looking to set down roots in Nassau County, our directory is tailored to provide you with comprehensive resources, insights, and the tools you will need from start to finish.
Our aim is to bolster the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels Nassau County and foster a supportive ecosystem where businesses of all sizes can thrive. Open your business with confidence, knowing that the Chamber of Commerce stands beside you every step of the way. Your Nassau County business journey starts here!
Step One:
Research and Business Planning
Whether you're initiating a new enterprise, growing an established company, or acquiring a franchise, having a plan is essential.
Create a Business Plan
- Business Plan Template (includes marketing, operational, management and financial plan)
Assistance & Training
- Nassau County Chamber of Commerce
- Email: info@NassauCountyFLChamber.com
- Phone: (904) 261-3248 x. 101
- SCORE Jacksonville
- Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
- Florida Small Business Resource Guide
Suggested Contractors
Step Two:
Form Your Entity
Follow these steps to make sure you are navigating through all the required legal procedures.
    1. Choose your company type:
    2. Register your business name (optional)
    3. Form Your Business:
    4. Determine State Licensing Requirements
    5. Determine Local Business Licensing Requirements:
-
- Nassau County: generally not required, some exceptions apply
- Town of Callahan: not required
- Town of Hilliard: not required
- Occupational Licenses and Miscellaneous Business Regulations
    6. Register for Employer Identification Number (EIN)
    7. Register State Tax
Additional Resources
Suggested Contractors
Step Three:
Location Phase
Whether you're initiating a project from scratch or moving an established business, you will be required to undertake the following steps. Explore location needs, ideals and opportunities.Â
Click here to visit the Planning Department page on the county website.Â
- Application for Wireless Facility
- Application for Agricultural Stand Permit
- Application for Special Event Sign Permit
- Application for Temporary Outdoor Sales
Please send a request to developmentapps@nassaucountyfl.com for the following:
- Alcohol Beverage State License application reviews
- Buildable Lot Letter
- Zoning Certification
Click here to visit the Development Review Committee (DRC) page on the county website.
- Application for DRC Pre-ap/New Project
- Application for Preliminary Binding Site Plan (PBSP)
- Application for Site Engineering Plan (SEP)
- Application for Plat Review
- Application for Final Development Plan (FDP)
Click here to visit the Planning & Zoning Board page on the county website.
Additional Resources
Utilities
- Nassau-Amelia Utilities (NAU)
- Florida Power & Light (FPL)
- Florida Public Utilities (FPU)
- Okefenoke REMC
- JEA
Suggested Contractors
Step Four:
Site Selection and Approval
After discovering the ideal location for your business, there are crucial procedures to which you should adhere.Â
Step Five:
Construction and Building Permits
Securing the right permits and adhering to local and state code requirements are essential when launching a business. However, understanding and moving through the many stages of the permitting process can sometimes be daunting. To assist you, we've provided a step-by-step guide below, designed to simplify the procedure and minimize potential errors.
Additional Resources
- Nassau County Code of Ordinances
- Nassau County Sign Ordinance
- Amelia Island Sign Ordinance
- Commercial Property Ordinance
- Nassau County Building Code
- Nassau County Planning Department
- Florida Building Commission
- Nassau County Fire & Rescue
- Nassau County Department of Health
Utilities
- Nassau-Amelia Utilities (NAU)
- Florida Power & Light (FPL)
- Florida Public Utilities (FPU)
- Okefenoke REMC
- JEA
Suggested Contractors
Step Six:
Inspections
You can never be too careful; it's critical to have the right agencies sign off on your business.
Step Seven:
Operation
Running Your Business
- Understand employer responsibilities
- Obtain insurance
- If your business has four (4) or more employees, or if a construction-related business has any employees, Workers’ Compensation coverage is required. For more information, contact your insurance carrier or the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Workers’ Compensation, at (850) 413-1601.
- Research incentive opportunities
- Understand resources available
Additional Resources
- Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
- SCORE Jacksonville
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) North Florida District
- Nassau County Chamber of Commerce
- FloridaCommerce (formerly Florida Department of Economic Opportunity)
- Florida Department of Labor
- OpenMyFloridaBusiness.gov
Suggested Contractors
Step Eight:
Congratulations, You're Open!
Congratulations! Now that your business is open and operating, make sure to join the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce. With more than 780 members and nearly 70 years of business knowledge and expertise, the Chamber is not only the voice of the Nassau County business community but also the best resource for businesses seeking education, outreach, advocacy, networking, and who want their membership dollars to work hard for them in the hands of local stewards.Â
If you have any questions or need additional support, don't hesitate to reach out to the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce at info@NassauCountyFLChamber.com or (904) 261-3248. We are dedicated to supporting your business and helping you not only succeed but also thrive.Â