Sewer/Water Licensing in Memphis CDP, Florida
Who Needs a License
In Florida, any person who engages in the business of installing, repairing, or maintaining potable water systems or sanitary sewer systems must hold a valid license issued by the state [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]. This applies to work performed in Memphis CDP unless a specific exemption applies.
The law defines "plumbing" and related water/sewer work as a regulated trade requiring licensure under Chapter 489, Florida Statutes. If you plan to perform sewer or water line work as a contractor or business in Memphis CDP, you must be licensed before beginning work.
How to Get Licensed
Florida issues sewer/water licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board, which operates under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation [Fla. Stat. § 489.107].
Steps to licensure:
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Determine your license classification — Florida offers different sewer/water license levels based on experience and scope of work [Fla. Stat. § 489.113].
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Meet experience requirements — You must document relevant work experience. Specific hour and year requirements vary by license type and are set by the Construction Industry Licensing Board [Fla. Stat. § 489.113].
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Pass the state exam — After meeting experience requirements, you must pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board examination covering your trade classification.
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Apply through DBPR — Submit your application, proof of experience, exam results, and fees to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
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Obtain local permits — Once licensed by the state, contact the Memphis CDP Building Department or Manatee County (which may administer permits for this unincorporated community) to pull permits before beginning specific projects.
Local Requirements
Memphis CDP is an unincorporated community in Manatee County. Permit and inspection authority typically rests with Manatee County. You should contact the Manatee County Building Department to determine permit requirements, fees, and inspection procedures for sewer/water work in Memphis CDP.
Consult the Memphis Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional requirements that may apply.
Exemptions
The following are exempt from licensing requirements:
- Homeowners performing work on their own property [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
- Employees of licensed contractors working under direct supervision of a licensed contractor [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
- Certain maintenance and repair work as defined in statute [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
Review [Fla. Stat. § 489.103] in full to confirm whether your specific work qualifies for an exemption.
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. § 489.107 — 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)