Miami Beach Introduces Pop-up Business Permits

In an effort to attract and retain new businesses while also activating empty storefronts, Miami Beach has introduced a pop-up special event permit to allow businesses to open faster and test concepts. 
 
The faster turnaround time is the result of a “use for use” concept… temporarily filling vacant spaces with the same permitted use as the previous tenant. For example, a former restaurant space would be used for a pop-up restaurant concept. “Use for use” permits will have a one-time fee of $250. A change of use will add additional time and may result in additional costs.
 
Permits can be issued for a maximum of 90 days for the same applicant. All state regulatory requirements apply for the sale of food and beverage and businesses are expected to file resort taxes with the City.
 
The initiative is an effort to remove barriers of signing long-term leases and other costs allowing a business to hone its concept and to provide activation for the noticeable number of vacant storefronts across the City.

Commissioner Ricky Arriola, who championed the idea, was quoted in a press release about the initiative: “With such a renewal of interest in our City, a quick turnaround on approval and low entry costs — it will be a signal to businesses and artists that there is an easy path for activation of empty storefronts."

To apply, visit www.eventsmiamibeach.com.