Contractor Licensing in Westville town, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, anyone performing construction work must hold a license unless they qualify for an exemption. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "construction" includes any work for the construction, remodeling, alteration, repair, improvement, or demolition of buildings, structures, or other improvements to real property.

The type of license required depends on the scope of work. Florida recognizes General Contractors, Specialty Contractors (including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and others), and Building Contractors. If you are performing work that falls under these categories in Westville, you must be licensed by the state before beginning any job.

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues contractor licenses through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) under authority of Fla. Stat. § 489.107, which established the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Step-by-step process:

1. Verify your trade classification. Determine whether your work falls under General Contractor, Building Contractor, or a Specialty Contractor classification using Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

2. Meet qualification requirements. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must have the required work experience (typically 4 years for a General Contractor, 2 years for some Specialty Contractors), proof of workers' compensation insurance, and a valid Florida driver's license or identification.

3. Apply for examination. Submit an application to DBPR under Fla. Stat. § 489.111. You must pass a state licensing exam covering Florida construction law, business practices, and trade-specific knowledge.

4. Pass the exam and receive your license. Upon passing, DBPR issues your contractor license. Licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed.

Contact the DBPR at their main office or visit their website for current application procedures, exam schedules, and fees.

Local Requirements

Westville town is located in Holmes County, Florida. Before beginning work in Westville, you must:

1. Obtain a local building permit. Contact the Westville town Building Department to apply for a construction permit for your specific project.

2. Comply with Westville Municipal Code. Review the Westville Municipal Code for any local licensing, permitting, or operational requirements that may apply in addition to state law.

3. Verify current local amendments. Municipal codes are periodically updated. Check the Westville Municipal Code link above for any local ordinances specific to contractors operating in the town.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensing:

• Owners performing construction on their own residential property (with restrictions)
• Employees of a licensed contractor working under the contractor's supervision
• Certain casual, minor, or incidental repairs as defined by statute
• Work performed by public employees in their official capacity

Review Fla. Stat. § 489.103 in full to confirm whether your specific work qualifies for an exemption.

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. § 489.111 — Licensure by examination
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Westville Municipal Code

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