Sewer/Water Licensing in North Bay Village city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for persons who engage in the construction, repair, or maintenance of water and sewer systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "water and sewer systems contractor" means a person who constructs, repairs, or maintains water mains, sewer mains, or potable water treatment facilities.

Work that requires a license includes:
- Installation of water distribution lines
- Installation of sanitary or storm sewer lines
- Repair or maintenance of municipal water or sewer infrastructure
- Potable water treatment system work

Fla. Stat. § 489.113 establishes that only licensed contractors may perform this work in Florida.

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues Sewer/Water Systems Contractor licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), governed under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps to obtain licensure:

  1. Meet experience requirements: You must demonstrate five years of experience in water and sewer systems work during the 10-year period preceding application (Fla. Stat. § 489.113).

  2. Pass the licensing exam: Apply through the CILB, which administers a written examination covering water and sewer systems construction, codes, and safety.

  3. Submit application: Applications are submitted to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. Contact the Board directly for current application procedures and fees.

  4. Obtain a General Contractor license or specialty license: Water/sewer work may require a General Contractor (GC) license or a specialty Sewer/Water Systems Contractor license, depending on the scope of work.

Refer to Fla. Stat. § 489.113 for complete qualification requirements.

Local Requirements

North Bay Village is located in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Before performing sewer or water work in North Bay Village, you must:

Consult the North Bay Village Municipal Code for local amendments, permit procedures, and any additional requirements beyond state law. Contact the North Bay Village Building Department to confirm local permitting requirements and fees.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensure:
- A property owner performing work on their own property (not for compensation)
- Work performed by a municipality's own employees on municipal infrastructure
- Employees of a licensed contractor working under the contractor's supervision

However, property owners cannot perform sewer or water systems work and offer it for sale or compensation without a license.

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

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