Sewer/Water Licensing in Inverness Highlands South CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for individuals and entities engaged in the business of installing, maintaining, or repairing water and sewer systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, these trades fall under the Construction Industry Licensing Board's jurisdiction. Work that constitutes "contracting" in this field—meaning you offer services to the public for compensation—requires a state license. This includes both new construction and repair work on potable water and sanitary/storm sewer lines and connections.

How to Get Licensed

1. Determine your license classification under Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — typically "Water/Sewer Contractor" or related specialty.

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

3. Demonstrate competency through examination
4. Provide documented work experience (typically 4 years in the trade)

5. Submit proof of financial responsibility

6. Apply with the Construction Industry Licensing Board, the state authority that issues all construction licenses under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

7. Pass the state licensing exam covering trade knowledge, Florida construction law, and safety standards.

8. Register your business with the state and obtain your license number before performing work.

Local Requirements

Inverness Highlands South CDP is located in Citrus County, Florida. Before beginning sewer or water work:

• Contact the Citrus County Building Department to determine whether permits are required for your specific project and to pull any necessary local permits.
• Review the Inverness Highlands South Municipal Code for any local amendments, standards, or additional requirements beyond state law.
• Verify that your state license meets local contractor registration or approval requirements.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing, including:

• Work performed by a property owner on his or her own residential property (with limitations)
• Work performed by employees of licensed contractors under direct supervision
• Work by government employees in their official capacity

Note: Exemptions are narrow. If you are compensated or working on property you do not own, licensing is required.

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
• Inverness Highlands South Municipal Code

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