HVAC Licensing in Pinecrest village, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person performing air conditioning, heating, ventilation, or refrigeration work must hold an active license issued by the state. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, an "air conditioning contractor" is defined as someone who engages in the installation, renovation, repair, or maintenance of air conditioning systems. This includes ductwork, refrigerant handling, and system startup.

Work requiring licensure includes:
- New HVAC system installation
- Replacement of compressors, condensers, or evaporator coils
- Ductwork installation or modification
- Refrigerant charging and handling
- System repairs beyond minor maintenance

How to Get Licensed

HVAC contractors in Florida must be licensed by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps:

1. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113: You must have at least 4 years of verifiable experience in air conditioning work during the 5-year period before application, OR a degree in HVAC technology plus 2 years of experience.

2. Pass the state exam administered by CILB covering Florida construction law, HVAC technical knowledge, and business practices.

3. Submit your application to CILB with proof of experience, exam results, and applicable fees. Application is made to the state board, not to Pinecrest.

4. Obtain your license number once approved. This license allows you to work statewide, including in Pinecrest.

Local Requirements

Work in Pinecrest village requires a local permit before beginning HVAC projects. Contact the Pinecrest Building Department to obtain permits and learn current fees and inspection requirements.

Pinecrest is governed by the Pinecrest Municipal Code. Review this code for any local amendments, permitting procedures, or additional requirements beyond state law. Local codes may address contractor licensing verification, insurance requirements, and project-specific conditions.

Exemptions

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

• Replacement of like-kind components (e.g., a compressor replaced with an identical model) performed by an unlicensed employee under a licensed contractor's direct supervision
• Routine maintenance that does not involve opening sealed refrigerant systems
• Work performed by an employee of the property owner if no charge is made

Contractors performing guaranteed energy, water, and wastewater performance savings contracting must comply with additional requirements in Fla. Stat. § 489.145.

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
• Pinecrest Municipal Code

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