Contractor Licensing in Century, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who undertakes to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, add to, subtract from, improve, move, wreck, or demolish any building or structure, or who offers such services to the public, must obtain a construction license unless exempt under state law. This requirement applies to work in Century, an unincorporated area of Escambia County, Florida.

Florida law defines "construction" broadly under Fla. Stat. § 489.105 to include work requiring skill and experience in trades such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, masonry, carpentry, and general contracting. The specific trade classification determines your licensing category and examination requirements.

How to Get Licensed

Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, administers all contractor licensing.

Steps to licensure:

1. Determine your classification – Identify whether you qualify as a General Contractor, Specialty Contractor, or other class based on the work you perform.

2. Meet qualifications – Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must meet experience and education requirements specific to your trade classification. These typically include documented work experience and formal training hours.

3. Pass the state examination – Fla. Stat. § 489.111 requires licensure by examination. Apply through the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board, which administers the exam covering state law, local codes, safety standards, and trade-specific knowledge.

4. Apply for licensure – Submit your application, exam results, and proof of qualifications to the state board.

5. Obtain a local permit – Once state-licensed, contact the Escambia County Building Department to obtain any required local permits before beginning work in Century.

Local Requirements

Century is an unincorporated municipality in Escambia County. Building permits and contractor oversight fall under county jurisdiction. Consult the Century Municipal Code for any local amendments or specific requirements that may apply to your trade or project scope. Contact the Escambia County Building Department to confirm permitting procedures and any local code provisions affecting your work.

Exemptions

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

• Owner-occupied residential work performed by the property owner (with limitations)
• Work performed by employees of licensed contractors under direct supervision
• Certain minor repairs and maintenance activities
• Work by governmental entities

Review the statute to determine if your specific situation qualifies for an exemption.

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

• Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
• Fla. Stat. § 489.111 — Licensure by examination
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Century Municipal Code

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