Plumbing Licensing in Lake Kerr CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who offers to perform plumbing work in Lake Kerr CDP must hold a valid state license. Under Florida law, plumbing is defined as work involving the installation, repair, renovation, alteration, or maintenance of pipes, fixtures, and appliances connected to water supply, drainage, or gas distribution systems within buildings or on premises.[^1]

A license is required whether you are self-employed, work for a contractor, or operate as a business. The scope of regulated work includes water supply lines, drain lines, vents, gas piping for appliances, and associated fixtures.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Process:
Florida regulates plumbing through the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

1. Determine your license category: Florida issues licenses at three levels—Certified Plumber, Certified Plumbing Contractor, and Registered Plumber—each with different experience and examination requirements.[^2]

2. Meet experience requirements: Applicants must demonstrate work experience in plumbing. The specific hours and type of experience vary by license level as set forth in Fla. Stat. § 489.113.[^2]

3. Pass the state examination: You must pass the DBPR's plumbing licensure exam. The exam tests knowledge of Florida plumbing code, safety practices, and applicable law.

4. Submit your application to DBPR: Applications are filed with the state licensing board, not locally. Submit proof of experience, exam results, and required fees.

5. Obtain your license: Once approved, you receive a state plumbing license valid statewide, including in Lake Kerr CDP.

For detailed information on specific requirements and the application process, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation directly.

Local Requirements

Permit and Inspection:
All plumbing work in Lake Kerr CDP requires a local permit from the Marion County Building Department (or Lake Kerr municipal authority if separate permitting applies). Permits must be obtained before work begins. The contractor's state plumbing license number is required on the permit application.

Municipal Code:
Lake Kerr CDP operates under the Lake Kerr Municipal Code.[^3] Review the code for any local amendments, additional permitting procedures, or supplemental requirements beyond state law.

Contact the Lake Kerr Building Department to confirm current permit fees, inspection scheduling, and any local code modifications.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from state plumbing licensure requirements:

• Work performed on one's own residence (owner-occupied)[^1]
• Employees working under direct supervision of a licensed plumber, provided they do not contract independently[^1]
• Certain maintenance and repair work defined narrowly in Fla. Stat. § 489.103[^1]

Exemptions are limited. When in doubt, obtain a license.

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. § 489.103 — Exemptions
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^3]: Lake Kerr Municipal Code

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