Sewer/Water Licensing in Melbourne city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for individuals who engage in the trade of sewer and water work as a contractor. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, this trade encompasses the installation, maintenance, and repair of sewer and water systems. If you perform this work for compensation in Melbourne or Brevard County, you must hold an active, valid license from the state.

The work regulated includes but is not limited to: installing water distribution lines, sewer collection lines, storm drains, and related appurtenances; repairing or replacing existing systems; and performing inspections of these systems as required by law or contract.

How to Get Licensed

Florida licenses sewer and water contractors through the Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. Follow these steps:

1. Verify eligibility. Review Fla. Stat. § 489.113 for qualifications, which typically require proof of four years of experience in the trade within the ten years preceding application, or equivalent education and apprenticeship combinations.

2. Apply with the state board. Submit your application to the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Include proof of experience, identification, and any required documentation per § 489.113.

3. Pass the examination. You must pass a state-administered licensing exam covering sewer and water trade knowledge, Florida construction law, and safety practices.

4. Receive your license. Upon passing, the board issues your license. Maintain it through continuing education and renewal requirements per state law.

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

Local Requirements

In Melbourne city, sewer and water work also requires a local permit. Contact the Melbourne Building Department to pull permits before commencing any licensed work within city limits.

Review the Melbourne Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit fees, or additional standards that apply to sewer and water contractors in the city. Local codes may impose additional inspection requirements or technical standards beyond state minimums.

Because Melbourne is in Brevard County, verify whether county-level permits or requirements apply to your project scope.

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 specific limitations)
• Work by employees of licensed contractors acting under direct supervision
• Emergency repairs necessary to protect life or property, subject to specific conditions and follow-up compliance

Review § 489.103 in full to confirm whether your work qualifies for an exemption.

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
• Melbourne Municipal Code

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