Sewer/Water Licensing in Williston city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who construct, repair, or maintain public or private water and sewer systems must hold a valid state license under Chapter 489, Florida Statutes. Work that requires licensing includes installation, alteration, and repair of water mains, sewer lines, treatment systems, and related infrastructure.[^1]

The state defines "contractor" to mean any person who undertakes to, offers to, or agrees to build, construct, alter, repair, improve, move, wreck, or demolish any building or structure, or to do other construction work, for which a license is required.[^2] Sewer and water work falls within this regulated category.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Process:

1. Determine your license classification — Florida issues licenses for Water/Sewer Contractor, among other construction trades.[^3]

2. Meet qualification requirements — You must satisfy experience, education, and examination standards established by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). Requirements vary by license type and typically include documented work experience and passage of a state exam.[^4]

3. Apply with the CILB — Submit your application through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The CILB, created under Chapter 489, oversees licensing for construction trades.[^5]

4. Pass the required examination — Your exam covers relevant Florida statutes, safety codes, and trade practices.

Contact the CILB or DBPR for current exam schedules, application fees, and specific experience hour requirements for your license class.

Local Requirements

Williston City Permits:

All construction work in Williston, including sewer and water projects, requires a local building permit before work begins. Contact the Williston Building Department to apply for permits and obtain local approval.

The Williston Municipal Code governs local construction standards and permitting procedures. Review the Williston Municipal Code for any local amendments, fees, inspection requirements, or additional regulations that apply to sewer and water work within city limits.

Levy County may also have jurisdiction over certain water and sewer infrastructure depending on whether the project involves municipal or county systems. Clarify project scope with the Building Department.

Exemptions

Persons exempt from licensure include:

• Property owners performing work on their own property (with some restrictions)[^6]
• Employees of licensed contractors working directly under the contractor's supervision[^6]
• Work performed by a municipality or county government agency

However, exemptions are narrowly construed. Most commercial or public sewer and water work requires a licensed contractor regardless of who funds or owns the project.[^7]

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 (Definitions)
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 (Qualifications for practice; restrictions)
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113
[^5]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107 (Construction Industry Licensing Board)
[^6]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 (Exemptions)
[^7]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103

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

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