Sewer/Water Licensing in Pembroke Pines city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, add to, subtract from, improve, move, wreck, or demolish any building or structure, including sewer and water systems, must hold a license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board.[^1]

Work involving sewer and water systems—including installation, maintenance, and repair of pipes, fixtures, and related infrastructure—falls under plumbing or utility contractor classifications and requires state licensure. The specific scope depends on whether work involves potable water systems, wastewater systems, or both.

How to Get Licensed

1. Determine your license classification — Identify whether you need a plumbing license, utility contractor license, or another relevant classification under Florida's construction trades.

2. Meet experience and education requirements — Applicants must demonstrate competency through work experience, apprenticeship hours, or formal education in the trade. Requirements vary by license type and are established under Fla. Stat. § 489.113.[^2]

3. Pass the state examination — The Construction Industry Licensing Board administers exams covering trade knowledge, Florida law, and safety standards.

4. Submit to the Construction Industry Licensing Board — Apply directly to the state board with proof of experience, education, exam passage, and required fees. The board processes all state-level applications.

Reference Fla. Stat. § 489.107 for the board's composition and authority.[^3]

Local Requirements

In Pembroke Pines, contractors must also comply with the Pembroke Pines Municipal Code. Before beginning any sewer or water work, you must obtain a local permit from the City of Pembroke Pines Building Department.

Required steps:
- Pull a city permit from the Pembroke Pines Building Department
- Demonstrate proof of state licensure
- Comply with all local code amendments and standards set forth in the Pembroke Pines Municipal Code

Contractors should review the Pembroke Pines Municipal Code to identify any local amendments, fee schedules, or additional requirements that may apply beyond state law.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work and persons from licensing:[^4]

• Work performed by a property owner on their own property (with limitations)
• Work performed by an employee of the property owner, if no public contract is involved
• Certain governmental entities and their employees
• Utility companies performing work on their own systems

Specific exemptions depend on circumstances. Consult the statute and the Pembroke Pines Building Department to determine if your work qualifies.

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

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions

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