Sewer/Water Licensing in Westville town, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who construct, repair, or maintain public or private water and sewer systems must hold a state license as a Water/Sewer Contractor unless they qualify for an exemption.[^1] The Florida statutes define this work broadly to include installation, alteration, repair, or maintenance of potable water supply systems, wastewater collection systems, and related piping and appurtenances.[^2]

If you perform sewer or water work in Westville (Holmes County), you must determine whether your specific work requires licensure under state law before commencing any job.

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues Water/Sewer Contractor licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Steps:

1. Meet qualifications. You must satisfy experience and education requirements set by Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which typically require either four years of documented, verifiable experience in water/sewer work or equivalent combinations of education and experience.[^3]

2. Apply with DBPR. Submit your application directly to the state licensing board. You will need to document your qualifying experience and pay applicable fees.

3. Pass the state exam. You must pass the Water/Sewer Contractor licensing examination administered by DBPR.

4. Receive your license. Once approved, DBPR issues your state license, which is valid statewide and required to legally perform regulated work.

Contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) at the Construction Industry Licensing Board for current fees, exam schedules, and detailed application instructions.

Local Requirements

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

• Obtain local permits through the Westville Building Department or Holmes County building authority (confirm jurisdiction with your local building official).
• Check the Westville Municipal Code for any local amendments, additional requirements, or permit procedures: Westville Municipal Code.

Local permit requirements may include site plans, inspection schedules, and compliance with local design standards beyond state licensure.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from Florida water/sewer licensing requirements:[^4]

• Employees working under the direct supervision of a licensed Water/Sewer Contractor
• Property owners performing work on their own residential property (limited circumstances)
• Certain utility companies and public agencies performing work on their own systems
• Plumbers licensed separately under Fla. Stat. § 489.113 (limited to specific plumbing work not classified as water/sewer contracting)

Review Fla. Stat. § 489.103 to confirm whether your specific work or circumstances qualify for an 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

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions

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