Sewer/Water Licensing in Immokalee CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who construct, repair, or maintain public or private water and sewer systems must obtain a state license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "water and sewer contractor" is defined as a contractor who engages in construction work involving water supply systems, drainage systems, or sewage systems.

The specific scope includes installation, repair, and maintenance of pipes, mains, connections, and related infrastructure for potable water and sanitary/stormwater sewage. Unlicensed work in this trade is prohibited and subject to enforcement action.

How to Get Licensed

Florida licenses water and sewer contractors through the Construction Industry Licensing Board established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The licensing process requires:

1. Application submission to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Construction Industry Licensing Board
2. Qualifying experience: Typically four years of experience in water and sewer construction in the five years immediately preceding application
3. Examination: Passing the state licensing exam covering Florida construction law, industry standards, and technical competency
4. Fees: Payment of state application and examination fees (current amounts available through DBPR)

Applicants must also meet background requirements and demonstrate financial responsibility. Detailed qualification standards are specified in Fla. Stat. § 489.113.

Local Requirements

Immokalee CDP is located in Collier County. Before performing work, contractors must obtain local permits through the appropriate permitting authority. Contact the Immokalee Building Department or Collier County Building and Construction Services to determine which office issues water and sewer permits for your specific project location.

The Immokalee Municipal Code may contain local amendments, impact fees, or additional standards beyond state law. Review the code at https://library.municode.com/fl/immokalee-cdp-florida to confirm all local requirements apply to your project.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work and persons are exempt from licensing requirements:

• Owners performing work on their own property (residential)
• Employees working under direct supervision of a licensed contractor
• Work performed by municipalities and governmental entities
• Minor repairs and alterations meeting specific thresholds (consult the statute for exact definitions)

Work outside these exemptions requires a valid state license.

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
• Immokalee Municipal Code

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