HVAC Licensing in Memphis CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person engaging in air conditioning work—including installation, maintenance, repair, or replacement of air conditioning systems—must hold a valid license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board.[^1]

Under Florida law, HVAC work is classified as "construction" and constitutes regulated activity. A license is required whether you work as a sole proprietor, employee, or contractor.[^1]

How to Get Licensed

  1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board established under Florida Statute § 489.107, which has statewide jurisdiction over all construction licensing in Florida, including HVAC trades.

  2. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which requires:

  3. Proof of competency through examination
  4. Documented experience in the trade (specific hours vary by classification)

  5. Good moral character and financial responsibility

  6. Pass the required exam administered by the Board covering HVAC technical knowledge and Florida construction law.

  7. Submit application materials to the Board with proof of experience, exam results, and any required fees.

Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board directly for current application procedures, exam schedules, and detailed experience requirements, as these are managed at the state level.

Local Requirements

As a municipality in Manatee County, Memphis CDP follows both state licensing law and may have local amendments.

Permit Requirements: Before beginning HVAC work in Memphis CDP, obtain a permit from the local building department. Contact the Memphis CDP Building Department (or the Manatee County building authority serving this area) to determine permit procedures and fees specific to this jurisdiction.

Local Code Review: Check the Memphis Municipal Code for any local amendments, additional permitting requirements, or restrictions on HVAC contractors operating within town limits. Local ordinances may impose additional standards beyond state law.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing requirements:
- Maintenance and repair of air conditioning systems performed by the owner of the property (not for compensation)
- Work performed by employees of the property owner on that owner's equipment
- Certain minor repairs or replacements as defined in the statute

Verify with the state Board whether your specific activity qualifies for exemption, as exemptions are narrowly defined.

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

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105, § 489.107, § 489.113
- Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
- Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
- Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
- Memphis Municipal Code

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