Sewer/Water Licensing in Ridge Manor CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, a person may not engage in the construction, repair, or installation of sewage or water systems without holding the appropriate state license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "contractor" includes individuals performing construction work, and Fla. Stat. § 489.113 establishes that persons must be qualified and licensed to practice these trades.

Specifically, sewer and water work—including design, installation, repair, and maintenance of potable water systems and sewage disposal systems—requires a state Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) license unless an exemption applies.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Process:

1. Apply to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107), which regulates and issues contractor licenses statewide.

2. Meet qualification requirements per Fla. Stat. § 489.113:

3. Hold a high school diploma or GED
4. Demonstrate experience (typically 4 years in the trade for which you're applying, or equivalent apprenticeship/classroom hours)
5. Pass the state licensing examination for your specific classification (e.g., Water/Sewer/Natural Gas Contractor)

6. Establish a business entity registered with the Florida Department of State

7. Submit your application to the CILB with proof of experience, exam passage, and any required documentation.

8. Maintain your license through continuing education and renewal per state requirements.

Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board directly for current application procedures, exam schedules, and specific experience requirements.

Local Requirements

Ridge Manor CDP is located in Hernando County. Building permits and inspections for sewer and water work are typically handled by the Hernando County Building Department rather than the town itself, as Ridge Manor is an unincorporated community. Contractors must obtain a county building permit before commencing any regulated sewer or water work.

Review the Ridge Manor Municipal Code to confirm whether any local amendments, additional bonding requirements, or local permitting procedures apply beyond state law.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensing:
- Homeowners performing work on their own property (not for sale or lease)
- Work performed by a homeowner's employee solely on the homeowner's property
- Certain municipal and public utility work performed by government entities
- Owner-builders constructing a single dwelling for their own occupancy

These exemptions do not apply to commercial or multifamily work.

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
• Ridge Manor Municipal Code

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