Sewer/Water Licensing in Temple Terrace, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who engage in the construction, alteration, repair, or improvement of structures—including sewer and water systems—must hold an appropriate state license unless exempt. Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines contractors and specifies which work falls under state regulatory authority. If your work involves installing, maintaining, or repairing public or private sewer and water infrastructure in Temple Terrace, you likely need a state construction license.

The specific license classification depends on the scope and nature of the work. State law distinguishes between general contractors, specialty contractors, and other classifications. Fla. Stat. § 489.113 sets qualifications for practice, which vary by license type.

How to Get Licensed

State licensing is issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Fla. Stat. § 489.107 establishes the Board's authority and responsibilities.

To obtain a license:

1. Determine your license classification (based on the work scope).
2. Verify you meet experience and education requirements per Fla. Stat. § 489.113.
3. Apply through the DBPR's licensing system.
4. Pass the required state examination(s).
5. Maintain the license through continuing education and renewal fees.

Contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board or visit the DBPR website for current application procedures, exam schedules, and fees.

Local Requirements

Temple Terrace operates under its own municipal code. Temple Terrace Municipal Code governs local permitting and contracting requirements within city limits.

Before beginning any sewer or water work in Temple Terrace, you must:

• Obtain a local building permit from the Temple Terrace Building Department.
• Comply with all conditions in the Temple Terrace Municipal Code.
• Ensure your state license is current and appropriate for the work.

Check the Temple Terrace Municipal Code for local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, and any additional qualifications beyond state law.

Contact the Temple Terrace Building Department for permit applications, local code specifics, and inspection scheduling.

Exemptions

Work performed by a property owner on his or her own property may be exempt from licensure under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, but exemptions have strict limitations. Public utilities and certain governmental entities may also be exempt. Review the statute carefully, as exemptions do not apply universally.

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
• Temple Terrace Municipal Code

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