Sewer/Water Licensing in Riverview CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Work involving the installation, repair, or alteration of sewer and water systems in Riverview CDP requires a state contractor's license. Under Florida Statute § 489.105, a "contractor" is defined as any person who undertakes to, offers to, or holds themselves out as able to undertake construction work or who submits a bid for construction work. Sewer and water work falls under the purview of regulated construction trades in Florida and therefore requires proper licensing before work can legally commence in Hillsborough County.

How to Get Licensed

Licensing for sewer and water contractors is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board established under Florida Statute § 489.107. To obtain a license:

1. Determine your classification: Verify whether you need a General Contractor, Specialty Contractor, or Building Contractor license based on the scope of your sewer/water work.

2. Meet qualifications: Per Florida Statute § 489.113, you must demonstrate relevant work experience (typically 4+ years in the trade), pass a state licensing examination covering Florida construction law and trade-specific knowledge, and maintain a valid workers' compensation insurance policy.

3. Apply with CILB: Submit your application to the Construction Industry Licensing Board. You must include proof of experience, exam passage, and insurance documentation.

4. Pass the state exam: The exam covers Florida Statute Chapter 489, construction industry practices, and technical sewer/water system knowledge.

5. Maintain your license: Renew periodically and comply with continuing education requirements as mandated by state law.

Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board directly for current application procedures, exam schedules, and fee information.

Local Requirements

Permits for sewer and water work in Riverview CDP are issued through the Hillsborough County building permitting system, as Riverview is an unincorporated CDP. Before beginning any sewer or water project, obtain a construction permit from the county.

Consult the Riverview Municipal Code for any local amendments, impact fees, inspections schedules, or supplemental requirements beyond state licensing. The municipal code may contain provisions regarding contractor registration, bonding requirements, or local permitting procedures specific to Hillsborough County developments.

Exemptions

Florida Statute § 489.103 exempts certain work from licensing requirements:

• Work performed by the property owner on their own residential property (with limitations)
• Employees working under a licensed contractor's direct supervision
• Certain utility company employees performing work within their official capacity

Exemptions are narrowly construed. When in doubt, assume a license is required.

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
• Riverview Municipal Code

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