Sewer/Water Licensing in Tamiami CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, anyone who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain sewer and water systems must hold a state license as a "Certified Sewer and Water Contractor" or qualify under a related specialty category. Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines the scope of regulated work, and Fla. Stat. § 489.113 establishes qualifications and practice restrictions. Work includes installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance of potable water lines, sewer lines, grinder pumps, and related infrastructure on residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

How to Get Licensed

1. Apply to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board — governed under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, which establishes the board's authority and procedures.

2. Meet Experience Requirements — Fla. Stat. § 489.113 requires a minimum of four years of active experience in sewer and water contracting within the preceding ten years. Experience may be satisfied through apprenticeship, on-the-job training, or a combination of trade school and field work.

3. Pass the Licensing Exam — You must pass the state licensing examination administered by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. The exam tests knowledge of sewer and water systems, Florida Building Code, safety standards, and applicable statutes.

4. Submit Application Materials — Include proof of experience, exam results, and any required fees. The board reviews and issues your license upon approval.

Local Requirements

Tamiami CDP is located in Miami-Dade County. Before beginning sewer or water work in Tamiami, you must:

• Pull Permits from Miami-Dade County's building department (Tamiami has no independent building permitting authority as a Census Designated Place).
• Comply with Local Codes — Check the Tamiami Municipal Code for any local amendments, restrictions, or additional procedural requirements beyond Florida state law.
• Provide Your License — Present your current state license during the permitting process.

Contact the Miami-Dade County Building Department for permit applications, fees, and inspection scheduling specific to your project.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work from licensing requirements, including:

• Work performed by owners on their own residential property (with limitations)
• Certain utility company employees working within the scope of their employment
• Work performed under direct supervision of a licensed contractor

Verify your specific situation against the statute, as exemptions contain restrictions and 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
• Tamiami Municipal Code

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