Sewer/Water Licensing in Plant City, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who engage in construction, repair, maintenance, or installation of sewerage or water systems must hold a state Construction Industry License in the appropriate classification. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] defines the scope of regulated work; sewer and water contractors perform work that directly affects public health and safety and therefore requires state licensure.

An individual or entity performing sewer or water work without a license violates state law and may face penalties under [Fla. Stat. § 489.113].

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Determine Your Classification
Identify whether you need a license as a Sewer Contractor, Water Contractor, or both. Your classification depends on the specific work you perform.

Step 2: Meet Qualifications
Under [Fla. Stat. § 489.113], you must demonstrate:
- Competency through examination
- Experience in the trade (specific hours/years vary by classification)
- Financial responsibility and moral character

Step 3: Apply to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board
The state board issues all Construction Industry Licenses. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107] establishes the board's authority and procedures. You must:
- Complete an application
- Pass the state licensing exam for your classification
- Submit proof of experience
- Pay applicable fees

Step 4: Maintain Your License
Continuing education and renewal requirements apply. Consult the Construction Industry Licensing Board for current renewal schedules and requirements.

Local Requirements

Plant City operates under the Plant City Municipal Code. Before beginning any sewer or water work, you must:

• Pull permits through the Plant City Building Department (or applicable county authority in Hillsborough County for certain utilities)
• Review Plant City Municipal Code for local construction standards, inspections, and amendments to state requirements

Contact the Plant City Building Department to confirm permitting jurisdiction and any local conditions that may apply to your specific project.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.103] exempts certain work and persons from licensure requirements, including:
- Work performed by a property owner on their own residential property (with limitations)
- Employees working under direct supervision of a licensed contractor
- Work excluded by specific statutory definition

However, exemptions are narrowly construed. Most commercial and multi-unit residential sewer and water work requires a licensed contractor.

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
• Plant City Municipal Code

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