Sewer/Water Licensing in Aventura city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, sewer and water work falls under construction contracting and plumbing trades, which require licensure. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" includes anyone who undertakes to construct, alter, repair, or improve buildings and structures—including water and sewer systems. Any individual or entity performing such work for compensation must hold an active, valid license issued by the state.

Work requiring a license includes: installing, repairing, or replacing water supply lines, drainage systems, sewage disposal systems, and related fixtures on residential or commercial properties.

How to Get Licensed

State Licensing Authority:
The Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, issues contractor licenses in Florida. You cannot obtain a license through the city; state licensure is mandatory.

Steps:

1. Determine Your License Classification — Plumbing and water/sewer work may require either a Certified Plumber license or a General Contractor license, depending on scope.

2. Meet Qualifications — Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, applicants must:

3. Be at least 18 years old
4. Provide proof of 4 years of relevant work experience (or equivalent education/apprenticeship)
5. Pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board examination

6. Maintain general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage

7. Apply to the CILB — Submit your application directly to the state board with documentation of experience, exam results, and insurance proof.

8. Obtain the State License — Once approved, you receive your Florida construction license number.

Local Requirements

Aventura Building Department:
After obtaining your state license, you must register with Aventura city before performing work within city limits. Contact the Aventura Building Department to pull individual job permits for each sewer or water project.

Municipal Code:
Review the Aventura Municipal Code for local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, and bonding conditions specific to construction work in Aventura. Local code may impose additional standards beyond state law.

Permits Required:
Each sewer or water installation, repair, or alteration requires a separate city permit before work begins. Inspections are mandatory at specified stages.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensure:

• Owners of property performing work on their own property (not for sale or lease)
• Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor under direct supervision
• Routine maintenance and minor repairs by property owners
• Government employees performing work for a public agency

However, exemptions are narrow. When in doubt, obtain licensure.

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
• Aventura Municipal Code

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