Sewer/Water Licensing in Holmes Beach city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to perform, offer to perform, or purport to have the ability to perform sewer or water work must be licensed under Chapter 489, Florida Statutes. The Construction Industry Licensing Board defines regulated work to include the installation, repair, alteration, or maintenance of systems that convey or treat water or sewage.[Fla. Stat. § 489.105] This applies to both new construction and service work on existing systems.

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues sewer/water contractor licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). The process requires:

1. Meet qualifications: You must demonstrate four years of experience performing sewer or water work within the past ten years, or equivalent education and experience as defined by the Board.[Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

2. Pass the examination: The CILB administers a written exam testing knowledge of trade practices, safety, and Florida building codes.

3. Apply with the CILB: Submit your application, proof of experience, exam results, and required fees to the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

4. Maintain your license: Comply with continuing education requirements and keep your license active through renewal.

For detailed application procedures and current exam schedules, contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board directly through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) website.

Local Requirements

Work in Holmes Beach must comply with both state licensing requirements and local municipal codes. Contractors must obtain building permits before beginning any sewer or water work.

Permits and approvals: Contact the Holmes Beach Building Department to pull permits for sewer or water projects. The city enforces standards found in the Holmes Beach Municipal Code. Review the municipal code for any local amendments, setback requirements, inspection schedules, or additional standards that apply beyond state law.

Manatee County may also have jurisdiction over certain water and sewer systems depending on the project scope and location.

Exemptions

A license is not required for:

• Owners performing work on their own property (residential only, in most cases)[Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
• Employees of licensed contractors, working under direct supervision
• Emergency repairs, provided proper permits are obtained and a licensed contractor completes the work within a specified timeframe

Always verify exemption status with the Holmes Beach Building Department before starting work without a license.

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. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Holmes Beach Municipal Code

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