HVAC Licensing in Bonita Springs city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who installs, maintains, repairs, or alters air conditioning or heating systems in Bonita Springs must hold a valid Florida HVAC contractor license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, HVAC work is defined as the design, installation, maintenance, or repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems serving buildings or structures.

Work requiring licensure includes:
- Installation of new HVAC equipment
- Repair or replacement of existing systems
- Ductwork installation or modification
- Refrigerant handling and charging
- System maintenance contracts

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues HVAC licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps:

1. Meet Qualifications: Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, applicants must demonstrate competency through either:
2. Four years of practical experience in HVAC work under a licensed contractor, OR

3. Two years of experience plus completion of an accredited HVAC trade school program

4. Pass the Exam: Submit an application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and pass the state HVAC contractor exam covering technical and legal knowledge.

5. Obtain Licensure: Once approved, you receive a Florida HVAC contractor license valid statewide, including in Bonita Springs.

6. Get Local Permits: Before performing work in Bonita Springs, obtain a City of Bonita Springs permit from the Building Department for each project. Local permits are required regardless of state licensure.

Local Requirements

Bonita Springs follows the Bonita Springs Municipal Code for construction and trade licensing. Contractors must:

• Apply for city building permits through the Bonita Springs Building Department before starting HVAC work
• Comply with any local amendments to state code adopted by Bonita Springs
• Ensure work meets Lee County and Bonita Springs building code standards

Contact the Bonita Springs Building Department to confirm current permit requirements and any municipal code amendments specific to HVAC contractors.

Exemptions

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

• Employees performing work under direct supervision of a licensed contractor
• Property owners performing work on their own residential property (not for hire)
• Maintenance and repair work performed by building operators on systems they operate
• Manufacturers installing their own equipment under warranty

Exemptions do not apply if work is performed for compensation or if the individual holds themselves out as a contractor.

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. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Bonita Springs Municipal Code

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