Sewer/Water Licensing in Alachua city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, sewer and water work falls under plumbing contractor licensing. Any person who contracts to install, construct, repair, or maintain water supply systems, drainage systems, or sewage systems must hold a valid license under Florida Statute § 489.113. This applies to work performed in Alachua city unless an exemption applies.

The term "plumbing" is defined in Fla. Stat. § 489.105 to include the installation, maintenance, and repair of water supply lines, drainage systems, vents, traps, and related apparatus used to convey water or sewage.

How to Get Licensed

Florida licenses plumbing contractors through the Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps to obtain a license:

1. Verify qualifications: You must meet experience and education requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which typically require 4 years of practical experience in plumbing work or equivalent combinations of trade school and experience.

2. Apply with the state: Submit your application to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). The CILB administers exams and issues licenses statewide.

3. Pass the licensing exam: You must pass the Florida Certified Plumbing Contractor exam, which tests knowledge of plumbing code, safety, and installation standards.

4. Obtain local authorization: After state licensure, you must register or obtain authorization with Alachua city before performing work within city limits.

Contact the Alachua city Building Department to confirm local registration requirements and fees specific to the city.

Local Requirements

Alachua city and Alachua County have local building codes and permit requirements. Consult the Alachua Municipal Code for local amendments, permit procedures, and any additional qualifications beyond state law.

You must obtain a local permit from the Alachua city Building Department before beginning sewer or water work within city limits. Contact the building department directly for permit application procedures, fees, and inspections required.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work from licensing requirements, including:

• Work performed by a property owner on their own property (with limited exceptions)
• Installation of water softeners and similar non-structural equipment
• Certain maintenance and repair work by employees of municipalities or utilities on their own systems

Always verify that your specific work qualifies for an exemption before proceeding without a license.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Operator Certification Program
- Phone: 850-245-7500
- Website: https://floridadep.gov/water/certification-restoration/content/water-and-domestic-wastewater-operator-certification

References

• Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Alachua Municipal Code

The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)