Sewer/Water Licensing in University CDP (Hillsborough County), Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who construct, repair, or maintain public or private water and sewer systems must hold a license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board. The state defines regulated work under this category to include installation, alteration, maintenance, and repair of potable water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, and related infrastructure.[^1]

The specific scope of regulated work depends on the type and complexity of the system. Work that modifies, extends, or maintains the structural or functional integrity of water/sewer lines and connections generally requires licensure.[^2]

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Process:

1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The Board administers all construction trades licensing in Florida.[^3]

2. Meet qualifications which include:

3. A combination of education and work experience in water/sewer construction or related trades
4. Passage of the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Exam for your specific classification

5. Proof of workers' compensation insurance (if required for your business structure)[^2]

6. Specific experience requirements vary by license classification. You must document your relevant work history and education. The Construction Industry Licensing Board will detail exact hour and year requirements for your particular classification when you apply.[^3]

7. Submit your application through DBPR's licensing portal with supporting documentation, exam results, and applicable fees.

Details on experience hours, exam structure, and application procedures are available directly from the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Local Requirements

University CDP (Hillsborough County) permits and inspections:

Permits for sewer and water work in University CDP are issued by the Hillsborough County building department. You must obtain a local construction permit before beginning work, even with a valid state license.

The University CDP Municipal Code governs local construction standards and permit procedures. Review the University CDP Municipal Code for any local amendments to state requirements, additional inspection procedures, or local contractor registration requirements specific to this jurisdiction.

Contact the Hillsborough County Building Department to determine current permit fees, inspection schedules, and any local licensing endorsements required to work within University CDP.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from state licensure under Florida law:[^1]

• Work performed on residential property by the owner or the owner's employees
• Work performed on agricultural property by the owner or the owner's employees
• Certain utility company employees performing work within their employment scope
• Work performed on property owned by a government entity by that entity's employees

Exemptions apply strictly to the parties and property types listed. Any work performed for compensation or on property you do not own generally requires a state license, regardless of the work's simplicity.

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

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board

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