What permits are needed to start a gym or health studio in Florida?
In Florida, all health studios and gyms must obtain a license from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and pay the associated fees. This permit must be renewed annually. In some cases, a studio or gym is also required to post a surety bond, letter of credit, or certificate of deposit of $25,000. This bond serves to reimburse members if their contractual obligations are not met by the studio. The bond is not required for all studios, but is required for studios collecting fees more than thirty days in advance. These studio owners must be bonded for a five year period. Additionally, any business operating in Florida must obtain a business tax receipt, state tax number, and certificate of use or occupancy.
Does Florida have requirements for health studio membership contracts?
There are consumer protection clauses that must be included in membership contracts to meet the requirements of the FDACS. The requirements for a health studio contract are listed in Florida Statute 501.017. These requirements include provisions for penalty free cancellation, how to cancel the membership, and refunds for the purchaser of a membership, among others.
What kind of insurance do gyms need in Florida?
Health studios and gyms operating in Florida should at least attain general liability insurance to protect them from any suits arising from potential incidents with their clients and members. Additionally, trainers and coaches working at a gym should have their own liability insurance to further protect them from incidents arising at the gym or with members of the studio.
What licensing do trainers and coaches need at a health studio or gym?
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) regulates the licensing of trainers in the state. Trainers are required to have a certificate of higher education in fitness from an accredited organization such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine or Ace. The trainer must pass a national board to attain the license for the state. When all national fitness certifications are in line, the trainer can apply for licensing with the DBPR by submitting all required supporting documentation and fees.
One Response
Would all of this for a gym or fitness center also apply to a kids gym, toddler play area With parent supervision so not a child care facility?.