HVAC Licensing in Cedar Key, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who installs, repairs, or maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in Cedar Key must hold a valid Florida HVAC contractor license. Florida Statute § 489.105 defines an "air conditioning contractor" as a person who engages in the business of installing, maintaining, or repairing air conditioning systems. Work that requires licensing includes new installations, replacements, repairs, and maintenance of HVAC equipment serving residential, commercial, or industrial properties.

How to Get Licensed

HVAC licensing in Florida is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under Florida Statute § 489.107. To obtain an HVAC contractor license:

1. Meet experience requirements: You must have five years of practical experience in HVAC work, as specified in Florida Statute § 489.113.

2. Pass the state exam: Complete the Florida HVAC Contractor Certification Exam through an approved testing vendor.

3. Apply with the CILB: Submit your application, proof of experience, exam passing scores, and required fees to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (a division of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation).

4. Obtain workers' compensation insurance: Florida law requires HVAC contractors to carry workers' compensation coverage.

5. Register with Cedar Key: Once you hold a valid state license, contact the Cedar Key Building Department to register as a contractor operating within the city and obtain any required local permits before performing work.

Local Requirements

Permits for HVAC work in Cedar Key are issued through the Cedar Key Building Department. Before beginning any HVAC installation, repair, or maintenance work, obtain a permit from the city. The Cedar Key Municipal Code governs local building and permitting requirements; consult the Cedar Key Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional requirements beyond state law. Contact the Cedar Key Building Department directly for current permit procedures, fees, and submission requirements.

Exemptions

Florida Statute § 489.103 exempts the following from HVAC licensing requirements:

• Employees working under the direct supervision of a licensed HVAC contractor
• Property owners installing or maintaining systems on their own residential property (not for compensation)
• Emergency repairs made by licensed contractors from other jurisdictions responding to immediate safety threats

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
• Cedar Key Municipal Code

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