Sewer/Water Licensing in Brooksville city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for anyone who contracts to construct, repair, or modify sewage or water systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "sewer contractor" and "water contractor" are defined as persons who engage in the business of installing, repairing, or maintaining sewage or potable water systems for compensation.

Work requiring a license includes:
- Installation of new sewer or water lines
- Repair or replacement of existing systems
- Connections to municipal systems
- Septic system installation or repair (in jurisdictions without municipal sewage)

You need a license if you perform this work for payment, even as a sole proprietor or for a single project.

How to Get Licensed

Florida regulates sewer and water contractors through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps:
1. Meet experience requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113: typically 4 years of experience in the trade or related construction work within the 10 years preceding application
2. Pass the CILB-administered examination covering trade knowledge, Florida construction law, and safety
3. Apply through the CILB (operated by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation)
4. Pay the applicable licensing fee
5. Obtain workers' compensation insurance as required by state law

Contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation or visit their website for current exam schedules, application forms, and fee amounts.

Local Requirements

Brooksville is located in Hernando County, Florida. Once licensed by the state, you must comply with local permitting requirements before beginning work.

Permit Requirements:
- Contact the Brooksville Building Department to pull permits for any sewer or water work
- Provide your state CILB license number on all permit applications
- Submit plans and specifications as required by the municipality

Refer to the Brooksville Municipal Code for local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, and any additional local standards that may apply beyond state law. Local codes may impose stricter standards for system design, materials, or installation practices.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensing:
- Work performed by a property owner on their own property (with some limitations)
- Employees working under a licensed contractor's direct supervision
- Work on property owned or controlled by the federal government
- Certain maintenance activities that do not constitute construction or repair

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)