Sewer/Water Licensing in Newberry city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for individuals and businesses that construct, repair, or maintain water and sewer systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "water and sewer system contractor" is defined as a person who engages in the construction, repair, or maintenance of water and sewer systems serving one or more buildings or structures.

If your work involves installing, repairing, or modifying potable water lines, sanitary sewer lines, or reclaimed water systems in Newberry, you must hold the appropriate state license.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Process:

1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The Board administers all contractor licensing in Florida.

2. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113:

3. Pass the state licensing exam for your specific classification
4. Demonstrate relevant work experience (typically 4 years for most water/sewer contractor classifications)
5. Provide proof of workers' compensation insurance

6. Meet financial responsibility requirements

7. Submit your application to the state board with required documentation, exam scores, and proof of experience.

8. Obtain your license once approved. This license allows you to work statewide, including in Newberry.

Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board for specific exam schedules, application fees, and experience documentation requirements.

Local Requirements

Newberry City Permits:

Once licensed at the state level, you must obtain local permits before beginning work in Newberry city. Contact the Newberry Building Department to pull permits for any water or sewer work.

Review the Newberry Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, or additional standards that may apply to water and sewer work in the city. Local code may impose stricter standards than state law.

Alachua County Coordination:

Newberry is located in Alachua County. Depending on the project scope and location, county requirements may also apply. Confirm with the Newberry Building Department which jurisdiction has authority.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensing requirements:

• Work performed by an employee of a government agency (federal, state, county, or municipal)
• Work performed by an employee of a utility company for that utility
• Installation or repair of water/sewer lines serving only a single family residence (owner-performed work may be exempt under certain conditions)

Check the statute for additional exemptions that may apply to your specific situation.

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
• Newberry Municipal Code

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