Sewer/Water Licensing in Tavares city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who constructs, repairs, or maintains potable water systems or wastewater treatment systems must hold a valid license unless they qualify for an exemption.[1] The state regulates this work under the Construction Industry Licensing Board framework.

Work requiring licensure includes installation, modification, or repair of water mains, service lines, treatment equipment, sewage collection systems, and on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems. Anyone performing this work for compensation in Tavares must be licensed.

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues licenses through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) under the Construction Industry Licensing Board.[2]

Step-by-step process:

1. Meet qualifications: You must satisfy experience and education requirements established under Fla. Stat. § 489.113. This typically includes documented work experience in the specific trade classification and passing a state exam.[2]

2. Apply with DBPR: Submit your application through DBPR's licensing system, including proof of experience, education, and any required certifications.

3. Pass the state exam: Complete the trade-specific licensing examination administered by DBPR.

4. Maintain your license: Renew periodically and comply with continuing education requirements as mandated by state law.

The specific experience hours, education pathways, and exam content are established in Fla. Stat. § 489.113.[2]

Local Requirements

Tavares requires all construction work—including sewer and water projects—to comply with city permitting and inspection procedures.

Permit requirements:
- Contact the Tavares Building Department to pull all required construction permits before beginning work.
- Your state license must be current and in good standing when you apply for local permits.

Municipal Code:
Tavares ordinances are codified in the Tavares Municipal Code. Review this code for any local amendments, additional permit fees, inspection schedules, or town-specific standards that may apply to water and sewer work beyond state requirements.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensing requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.103:[1]

• Work performed by a property owner on their own property (owner-builder exception, with limitations)
• Maintenance and repair work performed by full-time employees of the property owner
• Work performed by governmental entities and their employees
• Certain agricultural work and utility company work

Exemptions do not eliminate the requirement for local permits. Even exempt workers must obtain necessary city permits from Tavares before starting work.

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] Tavares Municipal Code

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