Find licensing requirements, forms, and other information for running a locksmith service in Hillsborough County

Find licensing requirements, forms, and other information for running a locksmith service in Hillsborough County 

Locksmith services businesses operating in Hillsborough County must apply for a biennial license prior to conducting business in Hillsborough County. The Locksmith Services Businesses Ordinance applies to those locksmith services businesses that operate in unincorporated Hillsborough County, and the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. 

Locksmith License Application and Renewal Instructions and Forms 

Before you apply: 

  • Verify your SunBiz profile is active and correct prior to submitting applications or renewals
  • Ensure your business tax documents are completed prior to submitting applications or renewals
  • Note: If your business address and business tax receipt are from another county (i.e. Pasco, Pinellas, etc.) but your business provides service in Hillsborough County you may provide that documentation with your application. 

Apply online:

The locksmith application is now online. To create an application for a new or first-time license:

  • Visit HillsGovHub
  • Create a login/register. Be sure to use the business email address to create an account. This email will be required to access records on file, including application renewal and modifications.
  • Click + New and select Enforcement Application to get started
  • Make sure to complete all the sections in the application and click “submit”  

Tutorial for registration assistance

For application assistance, contact the Hillsborough County Code Enforcement Regulatory Compliance at (813) 272-7400, ext. 36004. 

Renew online:

The locksmith renewal application is now online. To renew your license:

  • Visit HillsGovHub
  • Log in to your existing HillsGovHub account or create an account
  • Click on "My Records" in the Search dropdown options in the left-hand column
  • Locate your locksmith record. If you are due for renewal, you will see an option titled "Renew Application" in the "Action" column.

If you need assistance locating a record for your organization, email Isaac Ruffin at ruffini@hcfl.gov.

Renewal notifications are emailed 30 days prior to the expiration date.

Locksmith employee requirements 

Fingerprinting 

Locksmith businesses are required to get a background check on the owner(s) and all employees performing locksmith services. This is completed through the Regulatory Compliance office as follows:    

Information on background checks fingerprint scanning:

Removal and addition 

Additional requirements  

Along with biennial licensing and employee background checks, all licensed locksmith services businesses must comply with the following: 

  • Service vehicle must be properly identified with the company name and locksmith license number
  • Locksmiths must wear their company employee badge on all service calls
  • A copy of the locksmith license must always be maintained in the service vehicle
  • Business must maintain commercial general liability insurance coverage of at least $500,000 per incident 

Licensed Hillsborough County locksmiths 

Hillsborough County maintains a list of licensed locksmiths

Complaints 

Complaints can be filed electronically using the link below. For best results, provide evidence and specific details about what occurred, how much was paid to the company, and any other evidence to support your claim. 

Report a Complaint 

Contact 

For more information, email Hillsborough County Code Enforcement Regulatory Compliance at   RegComp@HCFL.gov or call (813) 272-7400, ext. 36004. 

Last Modified: 9/4/2024, 3:59:00 PM

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