Sewer/Water Licensing in Sharpes CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, anyone who contracts to construct, repair, or install sewer or water systems must hold a valid state license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "sewer contractor" and "water contractor" are separately defined regulated trades. Work that requires a license includes the installation, maintenance, repair, and alteration of sewer lines, water mains, treatment systems, and related infrastructure.

The specific scope depends on your contractor class. Fla. Stat. § 489.113 establishes qualifications and restrictions for each category of contractor.

How to Get Licensed

1. Apply to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board — the state agency that issues all contractor licenses under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

2. Meet qualification requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113:

3. Provide proof of four years of experience in the trade as a supervisor, foreman, or licensed contractor in the previous five years, OR
4. Provide proof of four years of classroom hours plus two years of documented experience

5. Pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board examination for your specific trade (sewer or water contractor)

6. Submit application materials — typically including your experience documentation, exam results, proof of workers' compensation insurance, and a Registered Agent designation.

Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board directly for current application procedures, exam schedules, and fees. The board does not accept applications through local municipalities.

Local Requirements

Sharpes CDP is located in Brevard County, Florida. Permits for sewer and water work are issued through the Brevard County Building Department, not the town itself.

Check the Sharpes Municipal Code for any local amendments, special conditions, or additional requirements beyond state law. Local codes may impose additional inspection or approval steps.

Contact the Brevard County Building Department to verify whether permits are required before beginning work and to understand county-specific permitting procedures.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work and workers from licensing:
- Installation, maintenance, and repair of sewer and water systems performed on your own property for your own use
- Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor under the contractor's direct supervision
- Work performed by government employees acting in an official capacity

Private contractors working for hire must be licensed regardless of project size.

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
• Sharpes Municipal Code

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