Sewer/Water Licensing in Lehigh Acres CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, sewer and water work falls under the Construction Industry Licensing Board's jurisdiction. Any individual or entity performing work on sewer or water systems—including installation, repair, alteration, or maintenance of lines, fixtures, and connections—must hold the appropriate state license unless they qualify for a specific exemption.[^1]

The definition of regulated work includes any construction activity that requires a license under Florida law. Work on public or private sewer and water systems is considered construction and requires proper licensing.[^2]

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Determine Your License Classification
Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board to confirm whether you need a General Contractor, Contractor, or specialty license for your specific sewer/water work scope.

Step 2: Meet Qualification Requirements
You must satisfy experience, education, and examination requirements set by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. Requirements vary by license type. Review Fla. Stat. § 489.113 for specific qualifications for the classification you seek.[^3]

Step 3: Pass the Licensing Exam
Complete the required state exam administered by the licensing board.

Step 4: Apply with the Board
Submit your application, proof of qualifications, exam results, and applicable fees to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board.[^4]

Once state-licensed, you may perform sewer and water work in Lehigh Acres CDP.

Local Requirements

Lehigh Acres CDP is located in Lee County, Florida. Before beginning any sewer or water work, you must obtain a local permit from the appropriate permitting authority in Lee County.

Consult the Lehigh Acres Municipal Code for local amendments, permit procedures, inspection requirements, and any additional restrictions specific to the CDP. Local codes may impose standards beyond state minimums.

Contact the Lee County Building Department or the Lehigh Acres CDP Building Department to determine permit requirements, fees, and local procedures for sewer and water projects.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from state licensing requirements:[^5]

• An owner performing work on their own property (not for sale or lease within one year)
• Employees of the property owner performing work on that owner's property
• Certain utility companies performing work within their service territory
• Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor under direct supervision

Exemptions are narrow. When in doubt, consult the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board or your local building department.

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. § 489.105 — Definitions
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
[^5]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions

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