Engineering Licensing in Hollywood, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law regulates engineers under the Construction Industry Licensing Board framework. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, an "engineer" in the construction context means a professional whose work involves design, inspection, or technical supervision of construction projects.

Work requiring an engineering license includes:
- Design of structures, systems, or site plans for construction
- Inspection and certification of construction work
- Technical supervision of construction or engineering projects
- Any work representing yourself as an engineer in construction-related matters

Fla. Stat. § 489.113 establishes qualifications and restrictions on who may practice as a licensed engineer. If you perform engineering services in Hollywood without proper licensure, you violate state statute and may face penalties.

How to Get Licensed

Engineering licensing in Florida falls under the Construction Industry Licensing Board, established by Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Step 1: Verify you meet qualifications under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which requires:
- Relevant education (typically a degree from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent)
- Work experience under a licensed engineer
- Passing the Professional Engineer (PE) exam administered by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)

Step 2: Apply directly to the DBPR Division of Professions, not to the local municipality. The state board issues all engineering licenses statewide.

Step 3: Submit exam results, education documentation, and work experience verification to DBPR.

Step 4: Once licensed by the state, you are authorized to practice engineering in Hollywood.

Note: Fla. Stat. § 489.1131 provides credit for relevant military training and education if applicable to your background.

Local Requirements

Once state-licensed, engineering work in Hollywood requires local permits through the Hollywood Building Department. Contact the Building Department to determine which permits apply to your specific project.

The Hollywood Municipal Code governs local construction permitting and code compliance. Review the applicable sections for any local amendments, inspection requirements, or additional documentation beyond state licensure.

Broward County may also have jurisdiction over certain projects. Verify with the Hollywood Building Department whether your work requires county-level permits or approvals.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 provides exemptions from licensure for:
- Employees of licensed engineers working under direct supervision
- Work performed on property you own (with limitations)
- Certain routine or minor construction work not requiring design or technical engineering judgment

Review § 489.103 to confirm whether your specific work qualifies for exemption.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE)
- Phone: 850-521-0500
- Website: https://fbpe.org/

References

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