Sewer/Water Licensing in Stuart, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who undertakes to construct, repair, or supervise the construction or repair of water or sewer systems must hold a valid license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board, unless they fall under a specific exemption. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

Work that requires licensing includes installation, maintenance, and repair of potable water supply systems, wastewater treatment systems, and related infrastructure. The scope is defined broadly under state law to protect public health and safety. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105]

How to Get Licensed

1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) — the state agency that issues all construction licenses in Florida, including water and sewer contractor licenses.

2. Meet qualification requirements, which vary by license classification but typically include:

3. Proof of experience in water/sewer work (duration varies by classification)
4. Passing a state examination covering technical and legal knowledge
5. Proof of workers' compensation insurance

6. A valid Florida Seller of Travel registration if applicable [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

7. Submit your application through the CILB with all required documentation. Processing timelines and specific forms are available through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), which oversees the CILB. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]

For exact exam dates, application procedures, and current fees, contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board directly through the DBPR website.

Local Requirements

Stuart and Martin County require that licensed contractors pull building permits for all regulated water and sewer work before beginning construction. Contact the Stuart Building Department or Martin County's building division to obtain permits and verify current local code amendments.

The Stuart Municipal Code (available at https://library.municode.com/fl/stuart) may contain local amendments, additional inspection requirements, or specific standards for water and sewer work within city limits. Review the applicable chapters before beginning any project.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensing requirements under Florida law:

• Work performed by a property owner on his or her own property (with limited exceptions) [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
• Work performed by a licensed general contractor within their scope of work
• Certain utility company employees performing work within their employment [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]

Check the full statute to confirm your specific activity qualifies for exemption, as the law contains detailed conditions and limitations.

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. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Stuart Municipal Code (https://library.municode.com/fl/stuart)

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