HVAC Licensing in Plantation, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who performs air conditioning, heating, or refrigeration work for compensation must hold a state license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113] defines restricted activities including installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of HVAC systems in buildings.

Work that triggers licensing requirements includes:
- Installation of new air conditioning or heating systems
- Repair or replacement of existing HVAC equipment
- Maintenance contracts requiring technical service
- Ductwork installation or modification
- Refrigerant handling and charging

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues HVAC licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board established under [Fla. Stat. § 489.107].

Step 1: Meet Experience Requirements
[Fla. Stat. § 489.113] requires documented work experience in HVAC trade (specific hours vary by license classification).

Step 2: Pass the Exam
You must pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board examination covering HVAC trade knowledge and Florida building codes.

Step 3: Apply with the State
Submit your application to the Construction Industry Licensing Board with proof of experience, exam passage, and required fees.

Step 4: Obtain Local Authorization
Once licensed by the state, you must register with the Plantation Building Department before performing work in the city.

Contact the Plantation Building Department for current registration procedures and fees specific to Broward County.

Local Requirements

Plantation is located in Broward County, Florida. HVAC contractors performing work in Plantation must comply with the Plantation Municipal Code. Review this code for any local permit requirements, inspections, or amendments beyond state statute.

All HVAC work requires a permit from the Plantation Building Department before commencing. Contractors must obtain this local permit even after receiving state licensure.

Contact the Plantation Building Department to determine specific permit fees, inspection schedules, and any local amendments to state HVAC licensing requirements.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.103] provides limited exemptions to licensing requirements. These include:
- Certain maintenance and repair work performed by employees of the equipment manufacturer
- Work performed exclusively on the applicant's own residential property (not for compensation)
- Routine filter changes and minor adjustments in existing systems under specific conditions

Any work performed for compensation—including labor-only services—requires a state license regardless of simplicity.

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

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