Do I Need a License or Certification to Operate a Florist Shop?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 11
- 3 min read
If you're passionate about flowers and considering opening a florist shop, one of the first questions you might ask is: Do I need a license or certification to operate legally? The short answer is — yes, but not necessarily a floral-specific license. While floristry itself isn’t heavily regulated, there are several business licenses, permits, and optional certifications you’ll need or want to consider to run your flower shop smoothly and legally.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping florist businesses get the right insurance coverage. Whether you're arranging flowers for weddings, funerals, or corporate events, or offering delivery services, we help you protect your business with florist shop insurance tailored to your needs.
Business Licenses and Permits You’ll Likely Need
1. General Business License
Most cities and counties require a general business license to operate. This license gives you legal permission to run your shop in a specific jurisdiction.
Where to apply: Your local city or county clerk’s office
What you’ll need: Business name, address, ownership structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.), and possibly an EIN (Employer Identification Number).
2. Sales Tax Permit
Also known as a seller’s permit, this allows you to collect and remit sales tax on taxable goods — including flowers and floral arrangements.
Where to apply: Your state’s Department of Revenue or Taxation. For example, California’s CDTFA.
Why it matters: Selling without this permit can result in fines and penalties.
3. Zoning Permit
Before opening your shop, ensure your location is zoned for retail use. If you’re operating from home, you may need a home occupation permit.
Where to apply: Your city or county’s planning department.
4. DBA (Doing Business As) Registration
If your shop name is different from your legal name, you’ll need to register a DBA.
Why it matters: It allows you to legally operate under a trade name and open business bank accounts.
Valuable Floral Certifications:
While not required, floral design certifications can boost your credibility and attract more clients. Here are some top industry-recognized credentials:
1. Certified Floral Designer (CFD®) – AIFD
Offered by the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD)
this certification requires:
Completion of approved floral design education.
Passing an online exam based on The AIFD Guide to Floral Design.
Optional hands-on design evaluation.
2. Accredited in Floral Design (AIFD®)
This is a step above CFD® and requires exceptional performance in the Professional Floral Design Evaluation (PFDE).
3. State-Level Certifications
Many states offer their own certifications, such as:
California Certified Florist (CCF)
Texas Master Florist (TMF)
Florida State Master Designer (FSMD)
Explore a full list of designations here
Health and Safety Compliance
Florist shops must also comply with local health and safety regulations, especially if you handle perishables or offer delivery services. This includes:
Proper storage and refrigeration of flowers.
Clean and organized workspaces.
Staff training on safety protocols.
You can find helpful templates and compliance guides from Easy Health & Safety.
Why Insurance Matters for Florist Shops
Even with all the right licenses and certifications, your business is still exposed to risks from damaged inventory to customer injuries. That’s where Wexford Insurance comes in.
We offer florist shop insurance that covers:
General Liability Insurance – Protects against third-party claims of bodily injury or property damage.
Commercial Auto Insurance – Covers vehicles used for flower deliveries or business errands.
Commercial Property Insurance – Protects your shop, inventory, refrigeration units, and floral supplies from fire, theft, or natural disasters.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Required in most states if you have employees; covers medical expenses and lost wages due to work-related injuries.
Florist Equipment Insurance – Covers specialized tools like floral coolers, design tables, and delivery equipment.
Final Thoughts
Starting a florist shop is a beautiful business opportunity — but it comes with legal and operational responsibilities. From business licenses to sales tax permits, and optional certifications, it’s important to get everything in place before you open your doors.
And when you're ready to protect your business, Wexford Insurance is here to help. We specialize in florist shop insurance and understand the unique needs of floral businesses.
