HVAC Licensing in Homestead, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who installs, repairs, or maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in Homestead must hold a valid Florida HVAC contractor license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, this includes work on residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC systems. The license requirement applies to anyone contracting to perform this work, whether as a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation.

How to Get Licensed

HVAC licensing is administered by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. To obtain a license:

1. Meet qualification requirements: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 requires applicants to demonstrate either (a) four years of experience in HVAC work during the five years preceding application, or (b) a combination of technical education and experience as defined by the Board.

2. Pass the HVAC contractor examination: The Construction Industry Licensing Board administers the state licensing exam. Contact the Board directly for exam schedules, study materials, and testing locations.

3. Submit application to the Board: Applications must include proof of qualifying experience, exam passage, and any required fees. The Board processes applications at the state level—not through the City of Homestead.

4. Obtain a local business tax receipt: After receiving your state HVAC license, register with the City of Homestead for local business operations.

Local Requirements

The City of Homestead requires HVAC contractors to obtain permits for work within city limits through the Homestead Building Department. All HVAC installations, replacements, and major repairs require a city building permit before work begins. Contact the Building Department to determine permit requirements for your specific project.

Review the Homestead Municipal Code for any local amendments, additional permitting requirements, or local licensing provisions that supplement Florida state law.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work and workers are exempt from licensing, including:

• Maintenance and repair of HVAC systems by the property owner on property the owner occupies (limited exemptions)
• Employees working under direct supervision of a licensed HVAC contractor
• Work performed on systems solely for training purposes in accredited schools

However, exemptions are narrowly construed. Any contractor accepting compensation for HVAC work must hold a valid state license. Verify exemption applicability with the Construction Industry Licensing Board before relying on claimed exemptions.

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

• 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
• Homestead Municipal Code

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