Sewer/Water Licensing in South Miami city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain public or private sewer and water systems in South Miami must hold a valid Florida contractor's license. Work that triggers licensing requirements includes installation, alteration, or repair of water mains, sanitary sewers, storm drains, and related infrastructure. This is regulated under Florida's construction industry licensing framework as defined in Fla. Stat. § 489.105, which establishes what constitutes regulated construction work.

How to Get Licensed

Licensing is issued by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), not locally. To become licensed:

  1. Determine your classification. Sewer and water work typically falls under the "Certified Contractor" or "General Contractor" category depending on scope.

  2. Meet experience requirements. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, applicants must demonstrate four years of practical experience in the trade during the five years preceding application, or equivalent combinations of education and experience.

  3. Pass the CILB examination. You must pass both a business and law exam and a trade-specific technical exam covering sewer/water construction standards.

  4. Submit your application to CILB. Applications are filed with the state board, not South Miami. Include proof of experience, exam scores, workers' compensation insurance, and any required bonds.

  5. Maintain your license. Florida requires continuing education for license renewal every two years.

Local Requirements

While the state issues the contractor license, South Miami requires permits for all sewer and water work within city limits. Contact the South Miami Building Department to obtain construction permits before beginning any regulated work.

For local amendments, Code amendments, or additional municipal requirements specific to South Miami, consult the South Miami Municipal Code. The city may impose local inspection schedules, bonding requirements, or design standards beyond state minimums. Check the municipal code or the Building Department directly for current local regulations.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing. Exemptions include property owners performing work on their own property (with limitations), utility companies and municipalities performing work on their own systems, and certain maintenance or repair work on residential properties. However, commercial sewer/water projects in South Miami virtually always require a licensed contractor.

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)