Sewer/Water Licensing in Homestead, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to perform construction work related to sewer and water systems must hold a license unless explicitly exempted. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "sewer and water contractor" is defined as a contractor who engages in the construction, installation, maintenance, or repair of public or private sewer and water systems, including pipes, treatment facilities, and related infrastructure.

Work requiring licensure includes:
- Installation or repair of sewer lines and connections
- Water main installation and repair
- Septic system construction and repair
- Water treatment system work
- Related plumbing and excavation tied to sewer/water projects

How to Get Licensed

State-Level Licensing:

Sewer and water contractor licenses are issued by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. To qualify for licensure, applicants must meet the qualifications set forth in Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which typically requires:

1. Four years of experience in sewer and water construction work, or equivalent education/apprenticeship
2. Pass the state licensing examination covering sewer and water construction
3. Provide proof of workers' compensation insurance
4. Maintain a bonding requirement as specified by state law

Apply directly to the Construction Industry Licensing Board through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Verify current examination schedules and application procedures on the DBPR website.

Local Requirements

Homestead Building Department:

Once licensed by the state, you must also obtain a local occupational license and pull permits through the Homestead Building Department before beginning any sewer or water work within the city.

Consult the Homestead Municipal Code for any city-specific amendments, permit fees, inspection schedules, and contractor registration requirements. Local amendments may impose additional bonding, insurance, or inspection protocols beyond state minimums.

Contact the Homestead Building Department for current local requirements, permit applications, and fee schedules specific to your project.

Exemptions

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

• Homeowners performing work on their own residential property (owner-builder exemption)
• Employees of a licensed contractor working under direct supervision
• Government employees performing official duties
• Certain emergency repair situations, subject to conditions

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
• Homestead Municipal Code

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