Contractor Licensing in High Springs, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida requires licensing for contractors performing construction work. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" is defined as any person who undertakes to, offers to, or agrees to build, construct, alter, repair, improve, move, wreck, or demolish any building or structure, or to do skillwork on any building or structure, for agreed consideration.

Work requiring a license includes residential construction, commercial construction, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and similar skilled trades. The specific license category depends on the type and scope of work performed.

How to Get Licensed

1. Determine your license category. Florida issues licenses for general contractors, building contractors, electrical contractors, plumbing contractors, HVAC contractors, and specialty contractors. Your category depends on the work you perform.

2. Meet experience and education requirements. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate at least four years of experience in the trade for which you seek licensure, or equivalent education and apprenticeship hours. Requirements vary by license type.

3. Pass the state examination. Fla. Stat. § 489.111 requires passing an examination administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board. The exam covers construction knowledge, law, and safety standards.

4. Submit your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The state board issues all contractor licenses. Applications must include proof of experience, exam results, and other documentation per statute.

5. Obtain local permits. After receiving your state license, contact the High Springs Building Department to pull the necessary local permits before beginning work in the city.

Local Requirements

High Springs is located in Alachua County. The city has its own municipal code governing construction and contractor activities. Review the High Springs Municipal Code for local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, and any additional licensing or registration requirements specific to the city. Local ordinances may impose requirements beyond state law.

Contact the High Springs Building Department for clarification on which permits are required for your specific project and the application process.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing requirements, including:

• Work performed by a property owner on their own property (with restrictions)
• Work performed by an employee under direct supervision of a licensed contractor
• Certain emergency repairs
• Work performed by public utilities

The statute contains specific limitations on these exemptions. Review Fla. Stat. § 489.103 in full to determine whether your work qualifies.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- Website: https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

References

• Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.111 — Licensure by examination
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• High Springs Municipal Code

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