Sewer/Water Licensing in Century, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for persons who engage in the business of installing, constructing, repairing, or maintaining water and sewer systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" performing such work must hold the appropriate state license. This applies to work on public water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, and related infrastructure in Century and Escambia County.

If you perform sewer or water work for compensation—whether as a business owner, employee, or independent operator—you must be licensed unless you qualify for an exemption.

How to Get Licensed

1. Contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board. The Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, issues all contractor licenses in this trade classification.

2. Determine your classification. Confirm whether you need a Water/Wastewater Contractor license or a more specialized certification (such as medical gas certification under Fla. Stat. § 489.1136, if applicable).

3. Meet qualifications. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate the required experience, pass the appropriate exam, and meet financial responsibility requirements. Specific experience hours and exam content vary by license type—contact the Board directly for current requirements.

4. Submit your application to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board with proof of qualifications, exam passage, and required documentation.

5. Obtain local authorization. Once state-licensed, you must comply with local permitting before performing work in Century.

Local Requirements

Permits for sewer and water work in Century must be obtained through the Century Building Department in Escambia County. Contact the Building Department to confirm current permit procedures and fees before beginning any project.

Review the Century Municipal Code for any local amendments, restrictions, or additional requirements beyond state law. Local codes may impose additional qualifications, insurance requirements, or operational standards.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work from licensing requirements, including:
- Work performed by employees of water or sewer utilities on their own systems
- Work on private, single-family residential properties by the owner (with limitations)
- Certain maintenance activities performed by public agencies

Review § 489.103 carefully to determine if your specific work qualifies for exemption.

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
• Fla. Stat. § 489.1136 — Medical gas certification
• Century Municipal Code

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