Contractor Licensing in Starke, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for contractors performing construction work in the state. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "construction" includes alterations, repairs, additions, and improvements to buildings and structures. The specific trades requiring licensure are defined in the statutes and enforced statewide.

If you perform construction work in Starke without the required license, you violate Florida Statutes § 489.113, which restricts unlicensed practice.

How to Get Licensed

Licensing is administered by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. To become licensed:

1. Determine your contractor classification — General Contractor, Building Contractor, Specialty Contractor, or Residential Contractor, depending on the work you perform.

2. Meet experience and education requirements — Fla. Stat. § 489.113 sets minimum experience hours and education standards that vary by contractor type.

3. Apply through the state — Submit your application to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board, not to the city of Starke.

4. Pass the examination — Fla. Stat. § 489.111 requires passage of the state licensing exam for your contractor classification.

5. Obtain your license — Once the state issues your license, you are authorized to work in Starke and throughout Florida.

Local Requirements

Starke enforces state contractor licensing requirements through its building and permitting process. Before beginning work in Starke:

• Pull permits through the Starke Building Department — Permit requirements are set by local code. Consult the Starke Municipal Code for local amendments, permit procedures, and fees specific to Bradford County.

• Check local ordinances — The Starke Municipal Code may impose additional local requirements beyond state law, such as local licensing, bonds, or insurance thresholds.

Contact the Starke Building Department for information on local permitting and any town-specific contractor requirements.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain persons and work from licensure, including:

• Owners performing construction on their own property
• Work performed by employees under direct supervision of a licensed contractor
• Certain maintenance and repair work below specified cost thresholds
• Specialty work performed by licensed professionals in other fields

Review Fla. Stat. § 489.103 to determine whether your specific work or circumstance qualifies for exemption.

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. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
• Fla. Stat. § 489.111 — Licensure by examination
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Starke Municipal Code

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