Sewer/Water Licensing in Inverness Highlands North CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, anyone contracting to construct, repair, or maintain water or sewer systems must hold a Construction Industry License unless exempt. This includes installation, alteration, and repair of water supply lines, drainage systems, and sanitary sewer work. The state defines this work under the Construction Industry Licensing Board's jurisdiction per Fla. Stat. § 489.105 (Definitions).

How to Get Licensed

Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board issues licenses for water and sewer contractors. To qualify, you must meet the requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113 (Qualifications for practice; restrictions), which typically include:

1. Experience: Documented work history in the water/sewer trade (hours vary by license classification)
2. Examination: Pass the state construction industry exam for your license category
3. Application: Submit your application to the Construction Industry Licensing Board with proof of experience, exam passage, and required fees

Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board directly for current exam schedules, application forms, and detailed experience requirements. You may also need a state Seller of Travel license or other endorsements depending on your specific scope of work.

Local Requirements

Inverness Highlands North CDP is located in Citrus County, Florida. You must obtain local work permits before beginning any sewer or water work in this jurisdiction.

Permit Authority: Contact the Citrus County Building Department or the Inverness Highlands North Building Department (if separate permitting exists locally) to pull required permits and learn about local inspection procedures.

Local Code: Review the Inverness Highlands North Municipal Code for any local amendments, design standards, or additional requirements beyond state law. Water and sewer work may be subject to county health department approval, particularly if connection to county systems is involved.

Citrus County may also impose fees, bonding requirements, or contractor registration beyond the state license. Confirm all local prerequisites with the county before mobilizing equipment or personnel.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 (Exemptions) exempts certain work from licensing requirements, including:

• Work performed by employees of municipalities or water management districts on public systems
• Homeowners performing work on their own property (with limitations)
• Certain repair and maintenance work within defined thresholds

Review the statute to determine if your specific work qualifies for an exemption. When in doubt, obtain a license to avoid liability and fines.

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. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Inverness Highlands North Municipal Code

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