Sewer/Water Licensing in Bonifay city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law regulates contractors who construct, repair, or maintain sewage or water systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" performing sewer or water work must hold a valid license unless exempt. The work includes installation, alteration, repair, or replacement of water supply lines, sanitary sewers, storm drains, and related infrastructure serving residential, commercial, or public facilities.

How to Get Licensed

Licensing is administered by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The process requires:

1. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113: You must demonstrate financial responsibility, honesty, and integrity. For sewer/water contractors, this typically requires documented experience in the trade.

2. Pass the state exam: The Board administers licensing exams covering trade knowledge and Florida construction law.

3. Apply with the Board: Submit your application, proof of experience, exam results, and required fees to the Construction Industry Licensing Board in Tallahassee.

4. Obtain local authorization: Once state-licensed, contact the Bonifay City Building Department to register locally and pull permits for specific projects in the city.

Specific experience and examination requirements are set by the Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.113 and vary by license classification.

Local Requirements

Bonifay city operates under its own municipal code. Review the Bonifay Municipal Code for city-specific permitting procedures, inspection requirements, and any local amendments to state law.

Contact the Bonifay City Building Department to:
- Confirm local permit application procedures
- Verify whether a state license holder must register locally
- Obtain current permit fees and inspection schedules
- Clarify any Holmes County requirements that may apply

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing:

• Work performed on your own property (not for hire)
• Work performed by employees of property owners on that property
• Work by municipalities and public agencies on public infrastructure
• Specific work classified as "repairs" rather than construction, depending on scope

Review Fla. Stat. § 489.103 in full to determine if your specific work qualifies for exemption.

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
• Bonifay Municipal Code

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