Sewer/Water Licensing in Bowling Green city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law regulates persons who engage in the construction, installation, repair, or maintenance of water and sewer systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" performing such work must hold an active license issued by the state. This includes work on potable water lines, wastewater collection systems, and related infrastructure.

If your work involves designing, installing, or servicing water or sewer systems in Bowling Green, you almost certainly need state licensure before performing the work or entering into a contract.

How to Get Licensed

Licensing is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. Follow these steps:

1. Verify your classification. Determine whether you qualify as a "Water and Sewer Contractor" or another relevant category under Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

2. Meet qualifications. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate:

3. Four years of practical experience in the trade (or equivalent combination of education and experience), or
4. Completion of an approved apprenticeship program

5. Pass the state licensing examination

6. Apply to the state board. Submit your application, proof of experience, exam results, and fees to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (a division of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation).

7. Obtain your license. Once approved, you receive a state contractor license valid for two years.

Specific exam content, application fees, and renewal procedures are set by the state board—contact them directly for current requirements and timelines.

Local Requirements

Bowling Green city requires contractors to obtain a local permit before commencing sewer or water work. Contact the Bowling Green Building Department to apply for a permit and learn current fees and required documentation.

Review the Bowling Green Municipal Code for any local amendments, additional inspection requirements, or code provisions specific to utility work within city limits. Hardee County may also impose requirements; verify with the county before starting work.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensing:

• Owners performing work on their own property (not for sale or lease)
• Employees working directly under a licensed contractor's supervision
• Public employees performing work for a government agency
• Certain routine maintenance or repair work as defined by statute

If you believe your work qualifies for an exemption, verify this with the Construction Industry Licensing Board 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

• 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
• Bowling Green Municipal Code

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