Sewer/Water Licensing in North Brooksville 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 valid license under Chapter 489, Florida Statutes. Specifically, work involving the installation, alteration, or repair of potable water systems, wastewater systems, and related underground infrastructure is regulated. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] defines the scope of regulated construction activity that triggers licensing requirements.
The Construction Industry Licensing Board establishes and enforces these standards. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107] governs the Board's authority over licensure.
How to Get Licensed
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Apply to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board — not a local agency. The state board administers all contractor licensing.
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Meet qualification requirements under [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]:
- Provide proof of experience in sewer/water work (typically 4+ years in the field)
- Pass a state examination covering technical and regulatory knowledge
- Provide proof of financial responsibility and insurance
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Complete any continuing education requirements
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Obtain an FREC (Florida Real Estate Commission) or CILB (Construction Industry Licensing Board) license number — the state will issue this directly.
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Verify current exam schedules and application procedures with the Florida CILB before applying, as requirements and processes may change.
Local Requirements
North Brooksville CDP is located in Hernando County. While sewer and water licensing is state-regulated, local permitting for sewer/water work in North Brooksville may require:
- Permit issuance through Hernando County or the applicable local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)
- Compliance with local amendments — check the North Brooksville Municipal Code for any local ordinances governing sewer/water contractors, bonding, or inspection requirements specific to the CDP.
Contact the Hernando County Building Department or the North Brooksville Building/Development office to confirm where permits are pulled and whether additional local licensing or certifications are required.
Exemptions
[Fla. Stat. § 489.103] lists exemptions from state licensing. Common exemptions include:
- A property owner performing work solely on their own property (not for hire)
- Employees of licensed contractors working under supervision
- Certain utility companies licensed under other state chapters
- Work by public agencies and municipalities on their own systems
Check § 489.103 for the complete list, as exemptions may apply to your specific situation.
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
- North Brooksville Municipal Code
The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)