Sewer/Water Licensing in Buckhead Ridge CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain public or private water and sewer systems must hold a state contractor's license unless exempt. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] defines "water and sewer contractors" as those who engage in such work for compensation. The scope includes installation, repair, and maintenance of water distribution lines, sanitary sewer lines, and related infrastructure.

Work on individual septic systems or small private water supplies may fall outside this definition depending on scope and complexity—verify with the state before proceeding.

How to Get Licensed

  1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), established under [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]. The CILB is the sole state authority that issues water and sewer contractor licenses.

  2. Meet qualifications per [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]:

  3. Demonstrate four years of experience in water/sewer work within the 10 years preceding application, OR hold a relevant degree plus two years of experience
  4. Pass the CILB examination covering technical competency and Florida construction law
  5. Prove financial responsibility and good moral character

  6. Provide proof of workers' compensation insurance and general liability insurance

  7. Submit your application to the CILB with required documentation, examination fees, and initial license fees. Contact the CILB directly for current application materials, fees, and exam schedules—these are set by state rule and change periodically.

Local Requirements

Buckhead Ridge CDP is located in Glades County, Florida. After obtaining your state license, you must secure a local permit from the Glades County building/permitting authority before beginning work in the CDP.

Consult the Buckhead Ridge Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit fees, or additional local contractor requirements specific to the CDP. Contact the Buckhead Ridge or Glades County Building Department to confirm current local permit procedures and fees.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.103] exempts:
- Work performed by homeowners on their own residential property (with restrictions)
- Work by employees of municipalities, counties, or water management districts, when performed in their official capacity
- Certain routine maintenance and repairs as defined by rule

A homeowner doing their own work on their property should verify with the CILB that the specific work qualifies before proceeding without a 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

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