Sewer/Water Licensing in Captiva CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law regulates work involving the installation, repair, and maintenance of sewer and water systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" includes any person who undertakes to, offers to, or does construct, repair, or improve any building or structure, including water and sewer work. If you perform sewer or water contracting work in Captiva CDP, you must hold a valid state license unless you qualify for an exemption.

How to Get Licensed

Florida sewer and water contractors obtain licensure through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The process requires:

1. Meet qualifications under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, including proof of four years of experience in sewer/water contracting within the past ten years or completion of an accredited trade school program.

2. Pass the CILB examination specific to your trade classification.

3. Apply with the CILB and pay the required state application and licensing fees.

4. Obtain a local permit from the Lee County Building Department (or Captiva's delegated authority) before beginning work.

Contact the Captiva Building Department or Lee County Building & Permitting for the specific application process and current fee schedules in Captiva CDP.

Local Requirements

Captiva CDP operates under Captiva Municipal Code. Contractors must:

• Obtain a local building permit before commencing sewer or water work.
• Comply with all Lee County and Captiva building standards and code requirements.
• Register with the Captiva Building Department as a state-licensed contractor.

Review the Captiva Municipal Code for any local amendments, permitting procedures, and additional requirements beyond state law.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, licensing is not required for:

• Homeowners performing work on their own property (owner-builder exemption), provided they do not hold themselves out as a contractor.
• Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor under direct supervision.
• Certain minor repairs or maintenance as defined by statute (verify current definitions with CILB).

However, exemptions are narrow. If you are paid to perform sewer or water work or offer such services to others, you must be licensed.

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

• 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
• Captiva Municipal Code

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