Sewer/Water Licensing in Miami Lakes, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to perform construction work involving water or sewer systems must obtain a license from the Construction Industry Licensing Board, unless exempt. Work that requires licensing includes installation, repair, and maintenance of water distribution and sanitary sewer systems.

Florida law defines a "contractor" as any person who undertakes to, or offers to, construct, repair, alter, or improve any building or structure for another, or who sells at wholesale or retail any materials for incorporation into any building or structure, or who manufactures any materials for sale for incorporation into any building or structure. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105]

How to Get Licensed

1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board — the state board responsible for issuing construction licenses in Florida. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]

2. Meet qualifications — You must demonstrate competency through examination and experience. The specific requirements for water and sewer contractors include passing a state licensing examination covering relevant construction codes, safety standards, and technical knowledge. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

3. Submit application materials — Include proof of experience, examination passage, and any required documentation to the CILB.

4. Obtain your license — Once approved, you receive a state construction license authorizing work in this category.

For detailed application procedures, contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board directly through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Local Requirements

Miami Lakes contractors must also comply with Miami-Dade County and town-specific regulations.

Permit Requirements: Before beginning any sewer or water work, obtain a permit from the Miami Lakes Building Department. Contact the town's Building Department for permit applications, fees, and inspections specific to water and sewer projects.

Municipal Code: Consult the Miami Lakes Municipal Code for local amendments, additional permit requirements, and town-specific standards that may exceed state minimums. Local codes may impose additional inspections, materials standards, or contractor qualifications.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from Florida licensing requirements:

• An owner performing work on his or her own property (with certain limitations) [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
• Employees of licensed contractors working under direct supervision
• Persons performing work on their own residential property (subject to restrictions)

However, exemptions may not apply to all sewer and water work. Check the specific exemption language in the statute and confirm with the Miami Lakes Building Department whether your work qualifies.

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
• Miami Lakes Municipal Code

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