Sewer/Water Licensing in Marco Island, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, a contractor performing construction work on water and sewer systems must hold a valid license issued by the state. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "construction" includes work on water mains, sewer lines, and related infrastructure. If you are performing such work in Marco Island, you must be licensed unless you qualify for a specific exemption.

The work regulated includes installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance of water distribution systems and sanitary/storm sewer systems serving residential, commercial, or public facilities.

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues water and sewer contractor licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps:

1. Verify your eligibility under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which sets forth qualifications including experience requirements (typically 4 years of experience in water/sewer construction within the 10-year period before application) and examination requirements.

2. Apply to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), which administers licensing on behalf of the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

3. Pass the state licensure exam covering water and sewer construction practices, code compliance, and safety standards.

4. Submit proof of workers' compensation insurance and general liability insurance as required by state law.

5. Pay applicable licensing fees set by the state.

For current application procedures and exam dates, contact the DBPR directly, as application methods and fees may change.

Local Requirements

Marco Island is located in Collier County, Florida. Before beginning work, you must obtain a local construction permit from the Marco Island Building Department.

Review the Marco Island Municipal Code at https://library.municode.com/fl/marco_island for any additional local requirements, permits, inspections, or amendments to state law that may apply to water and sewer work within city limits.

Contact the Marco Island Building Department for specific permit application procedures, inspection schedules, and any local fee requirements.

Exemptions

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

• Work performed by employees of the property owner on property they own (owner-builder exemption), provided the work is not for sale or lease
• Emergency repairs necessary to protect life, safety, or property, though licensing may still be required afterward

Water and sewer work on municipal or public systems may have additional regulations. Verify exemptions with the Marco Island Building Department before proceeding.

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
• Marco Island Municipal Code

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