Contractor Licensing in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida requires licensure for contractors performing construction work that costs $1,000 or more. "Construction" includes building, altering, repairing, improving, or moving structures or improvements to real property.[Fla. Stat. § 489.105]

The specific trades regulated include:
- General Contractors
- Building Contractors
- Specialty Contractors (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, etc.)

If your work falls under these categories and the job value exceeds $1,000, you must hold a valid Florida construction license before performing or advertising the work.[Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Qualifications
You must demonstrate four years of experience in your trade during the past ten years, or meet alternative qualifying experience requirements. Active Florida licensees or those with equivalent out-of-state credentials may qualify under different standards.[Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

Step 2: Apply Through CILB
Submit your application to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). The board processes all state-level licensing applications.[Fla. Stat. § 489.107]

Step 3: Pass the Examination
You must pass the CILB examination for your specific trade classification. The exam tests knowledge of Florida construction law, trade practices, and safety standards.[Fla. Stat. § 489.111]

Step 4: Receive Your License
Upon passing, CILB issues your Florida construction license. This license is valid statewide, including in Howey-in-the-Hills.

Local Requirements

Howey-in-the-Hills enforces Florida state construction licensing requirements. Before beginning any licensed work in town, you must:

1. Pull a Local Permit from the Howey-in-the-Hills Building Department for your specific project
2. Verify Local Codes by reviewing the Howey-in-the-Hills Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional restrictions beyond state law

Contact the Howey-in-the-Hills Building Department for permit procedures, local code questions, and inspection scheduling.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from Florida licensure:[Fla. Stat. § 489.103]

• Work performed by the property owner on their own residential property
• Work by employees of a licensed contractor under direct supervision
• Certain maintenance and repair work under $1,000
• Work by engineers, architects, or other licensed professionals acting within their scope

However, even exempt work must comply with all local Howey-in-the-Hills codes and permit requirements.

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
• Howey-in-the-Hills Municipal Code

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