Apply or Renew Sales Tax Exemption
Is my production company eligible for the Sales Tax Exemption program?
A production company conducting motion picture, television, commercial or sound recording business in the State of Florida may be qualified for a certificate of exemption from the Department of Revenue. If your company is based in Florida, your production company must be registered as a Florida business with the Department of State, Division of Corporations.
How do I apply or renew my sales tax exemption certificate?
The process for renewing your sales tax exemption certificate is the same as when you initially applied for the exemption.
When does my production company receive the certificate?
The Department of Revenue will issue the certificate of exemption within 5 working days of the receipt of an approved application.
My certificate has expired. Can it be backdated?
No. The Department of Revenue doesn’t permit retroactive dates.
What information will I need to fill out the application?
Prior to applying, please fill out and save the Florida financials chart tool located on the sales tax exemption page. This tool will help you prepare your Florida estimated financial information for the application. This can be used as a reference during the application process and may prevent your session from timing out.

90 Day certificate:
Production Company needs to provide tax & non-tax exempt expenditures, current production information, & employee information including wages.

12 month certificate:
Production Company needs to provide tax & non-tax exempt expenditures, current production information, & employee information including wages for a 12 month period.

Are hotel occupancy taxes and car rental exempt?
Hotels and car rentals are non-tax exempt purchases.
What does the Certificate of Exemption allow me to do?
Lease, rent, or purchase items that are an integral part of the production process.
This includes: production equipment, set design and construction, props, wardrobe, and real property.
Am I responsible for renewing and/or extending my certificate prior to expiration?
Yes.
What is subject to an audit by the Department of Revenue?
All of your purchases, leases and rentals.
What do I do if I lost my username or password?
Contact our office and we will be happy to provide you with the information.
How do I get a job in the industry?
There are many ways to get involved with the industry:

1) First familiarize yourself with local communities that exist in your area.

2) Get listed in our Resource and Workforce Directory, which allows you to create a profile of personal work history, professional credentials, or a resume.

3) Stay current with industry activity by checking our website and social media pages.

4) Visit the websites and social media pages of key trade associations, organizations, and advocacy groups interested in growing and supporting the industry in Florida.

How do I get my house or property listed as a location?
If you would like your property listed as a location, please visit the list your property as a location page on our website. You will be able to submit information and photos of your property. If a production company inquiries about a location similar to yours, the local film commission in your area will have the information handy. In addition, there may be location service companies in your area with which you can register the property. Ask your local film commission for a list or check our online production directory.
How do I get the word out about my company?
Networking is an essential part of the industry. There are many resources available to independent artists and companies. An excellent resource is our Resource and Workforce Directory. It allows you to create a profile for your business and connect with hundreds of potential employers. You should also make sure your local film commission is aware of the services you provide. Search the list of Local Film commissions in Florida.
What is the best way to search for locations in Florida?
Our site offers a searchable library of locations throughout the state. This provides a great starting point for most productions as it includes pictures and information about each location. You can also enlist the help of local film commissions in Florida by sending a description of the locations you need. Custom information and location photos that fit your requirements will be returned as soon as possible.
How do I obtain a permit in Florida?
Permits are handled at the local level in Florida. Search the list of the Local Film Commissions. If you are planning to produce content on state or federal property, see the Homeland Security Website for more information.
How do I obtain a permit on state or federal property in Florida?
Obtaining permits on state and federal property are handled through the specific agencies that maintain them. A list of agencies can be found under the permitting tab.

How can I locate contact information for Florida’s local film commissions?
Florida’s local film commissions are listed in the Florida Film Commissions Directory.
How do I get listed in the Florida Resource and Workforce Directory?
You can maximize your exposure to potential employers by creating a profile in our Resource and Workforce Directory.
Who should I contact if I can’t find the answer to my question?
Contact FloridaCommerce directly with questions.
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