Sewer/Water Licensing in High Springs, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for individuals and contractors performing plumbing work, including installation, repair, and maintenance of sewer and water systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "plumbing" is defined as the practice of installing, repairing, or maintaining pipes, fixtures, and appliances for the supply and removal of water and sewage in buildings and structures.

Work involving the design, installation, or alteration of sewer and water systems in High Springs requires a state-issued license. This includes both new construction and repairs to existing systems.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Process:

1. Determine your license category. Fla. Stat. § 489.113 specifies two primary classes: Certified Plumber and Registered Plumber, each with different experience and examination requirements.

2. Meet qualifications. You must satisfy experience requirements (typically 4 years of documented work in plumbing under a licensed contractor for a Certified Plumber license) and pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board examination.

3. Apply with the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, the Board issues all plumbing licenses in Florida. Submit your application, proof of experience, examination fees, and license fees directly to the state Board.

4. Pass the licensing exam. The exam covers Florida plumbing code, safety practices, and trade-specific regulations.

5. Obtain your state license. Once approved, you receive a license number valid for two years, renewable upon meeting continuing education requirements.

Local Requirements

High Springs operates under Alachua County jurisdiction for permitting and code enforcement. Before beginning any sewer or water work in High Springs:

• Pull permits through the High Springs Building Department. Contact them for current permit applications, fees, and inspection scheduling.
• Review the High Springs Municipal Code at https://library.municode.com/fl/high_springs for any local amendments, setback requirements, or additional standards that apply to sewer and water installations within city limits.
• Comply with local inspections. All work must pass municipal inspections before final sign-off.

Exemptions

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

• Repair and maintenance of single-family residential plumbing performed by the homeowner on their own property
• Emergency repairs necessary to protect health or safety (though a licensed plumber must ultimately bring work into compliance)

Commercial work, multi-family properties, and new installations always require a licensed contractor.

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
• High Springs Municipal Code

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