Sewer/Water Licensing in Tampa city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for persons who construct, repair, or maintain public or private water and sewer systems. Work involving the installation, alteration, or repair of water mains, sewer lines, or related infrastructure is regulated under Florida's construction licensing framework. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines "water and sewer contractor" as a person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain water and sewer systems.]

In Tampa, any contractor performing sewer or water work must hold the appropriate state license before beginning work.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensure:

1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). [Fla. Stat. § 489.107 establishes the CILB's authority to issue licenses.]

2. Meet qualification requirements: You must demonstrate relevant experience (typically 4 years for a water/sewer contractor) and pass a state licensing examination. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113 sets qualification standards, including experience and exam passage.]

3. Submit an application with proof of experience, passing exam scores, and applicable fees to the CILB.

4. Obtain workers' compensation insurance as required by Florida law before the license is issued.

The CILB administers exams and processes applications. Contact the Department of Business and Professional Regulation for current exam dates, fees, and detailed application procedures.

Local Requirements

Tampa/Hillsborough County:

Contractors must obtain permits from the City of Tampa Building Department before commencing sewer or water work. The City of Tampa requires:

• A valid state CILB license (verified at permit application)
• Local building permits specific to the project scope
• Compliance with Tampa Municipal Code provisions governing construction activities

Review the Tampa Municipal Code linked above for local amendments, permit fees, inspection schedules, and any additional local sewer/water contractor requirements that may exceed state minimums.

Contact the Tampa Building Department for permit application procedures, fees, and required documentation.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work from licensure requirements, including:]

• Work performed by a property owner on their own property (limited scope)
• Maintenance work on residential property by the property owner or their employee
• Work performed under direct supervision of a licensed contractor who assumes responsibility

However, exemptions are narrowly construed. Most commercial sewer/water work and work for hire requires a license regardless of exemption status.

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
• Tampa Municipal Code

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