Plumbing Licensing in Tampa, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who installs, constructs, alters, or repairs plumbing systems in Florida must hold a plumbing license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "plumbing" includes the installation of pipes, fixtures, and appliances for the supply and distribution of water, and the collection and disposal of waterborne wastes.

Work that requires licensing includes:
- Installing water supply lines and drainage systems
- Installing or repairing fixtures (toilets, sinks, showers, water heaters)
- Gas piping for appliances
- Backflow prevention devices

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing (Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board)

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, the Construction Industry Licensing Board oversees plumbing licenses.

Requirements:

1. Experience: Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate four years of practical experience working under a licensed plumber or contractor, or equivalent classroom hours.

2. Examination: Pass the state plumbing licensing exam administered by the Board.

3. Application: Apply through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Division of Construction Industry Licensing.

4. Fees: Pay the required state application and examination fees (contact DBPR for current amounts).

The Board specifies qualifications for different license levels (Journeyman Plumber, Master Plumber). Check the current exam requirements and application procedures with DBPR or the Board directly.

Local Requirements

Permits and Inspections

All plumbing work in Tampa requires a permit from the City of Tampa Building Department before work begins. Contact the Building Department to:
- Apply for plumbing permits
- Schedule inspections
- Obtain local permit fee information

Municipal Code

Refer to the Tampa Municipal Code for local plumbing amendments, permit procedures, and city-specific regulations that supplement state law.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensure:

• Owner-occupants performing work on their own residential property (with limitations)
• Employees working under direct supervision of a licensed plumber
• Certain repairs or replacements of existing fixtures by property owners (check the statute for specific conditions)

Exemptions are narrow. If you perform plumbing work for compensation or on property you don't own, a license is required.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- Website: https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

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
• Tampa Municipal Code

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