Sewer/Water Licensing in Moore Haven, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who engages in the business of installing, constructing, repairing, or maintaining water and sewer systems must obtain a license under the Construction Industry Licensing Board's jurisdiction. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] defines "contractor" to include those performing work on potable water and sanitary sewer systems. Work that requires a license includes:

• Installation of water service lines and fixtures
• Construction or repair of sewer lines and drainage systems
• Maintenance and alteration of water treatment or distribution systems
• Any contracting work related to public or private water and sewer infrastructure

[Fla. Stat. § 489.113] prohibits unlicensed persons from advertising, offering, or performing this work for compensation.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Process:

1. Qualification: Meet education and experience requirements per [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]. Typically, this requires 4 years of experience in the trade or equivalent classroom/apprenticeship hours.

2. Exam: Pass the state contractor's examination administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board [Fla. Stat. § 489.107].

3. Application: Apply with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), which oversees the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Submit proof of experience, exam results, and application fees.

4. License Issuance: Upon approval, receive your state contractor's license.

Contact the DBPR or visit their official website for current exam dates, fees, and detailed application procedures.

Local Requirements

Moore Haven is located in Glades County, Florida.

Permit Requirements: Before beginning any sewer or water work in Moore Haven, you must obtain a local building permit from the Moore Haven Building Department. The permit process requires proof of your current state contractor's license.

Local Code: Consult the Moore Haven Municipal Code for local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, and any additional standards specific to the city. Local amendments may impose additional qualifications or procedural requirements beyond state law.

Contact the Moore Haven Building Department for specific permit applications, fees, inspection scheduling, and any local modifications to state requirements.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.103] exempts certain work and workers from licensure requirements, including:

• Work performed by a property owner on their own property
• Work by employees of licensed contractors, when performed under direct supervision
• Certain utility company employees performing work within their scope of employment
• Work by public employees of municipal or county governments

However, exemptions are narrowly construed. When in doubt, obtain licensure.

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
• Moore Haven Municipal Code

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