Electrical Licensing in Westwood Lakes CDP, Florida
Who Needs a License
Any person who performs electrical construction work in Westwood Lakes CDP must hold a Florida electrical license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, electrical construction includes the installation, alteration, repair, and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment in buildings and structures.
Work that triggers licensing requirements includes wiring buildings, installing outlets and switches, upgrading electrical panels, and any work on permanently installed electrical equipment. If you are performing this work for compensation—whether as a sole proprietor, employee, or contractor—you need licensure.
How to Get Licensed
Electrical licensing in Florida is issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The process requires:
- Meet qualification standards under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which require you to demonstrate relevant experience, knowledge, and character fitness
- Document your experience: Applicants must provide evidence of work experience in the electrical trade (specific hours vary by license classification)
- Pass the state examination: You must pass the Florida electrical contractor or electrician exam covering code knowledge and trade practices
- Submit your application to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board, not to Westwood Lakes directly
Military applicants may receive credit for relevant training under Fla. Stat. § 489.1131.
The Construction Industry Licensing Board processes all state-level applications and exam administration. Contact the Board through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for current exam schedules and application fees.
Local Requirements
Westwood Lakes CDP, located in Miami-Dade County, falls under county permitting jurisdiction. Before beginning electrical work in Westwood Lakes:
- Pull permits through the Miami-Dade County building department (not the town directly)
- Check the Westwood Lakes Municipal Code at https://library.municode.com/fl/westwood-lakes-cdp-florida for any local amendments or additional requirements beyond state law
Contact the Miami-Dade County Building Department to confirm current permit requirements, fees, and inspection procedures specific to this unincorporated CDP area.
Exemptions
Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain electrical work is exempt from licensing requirements. Exemptions include:
- Maintenance and repair of electrical equipment by the equipment manufacturer or authorized service agent
- Work performed by a property owner on his or her own residential property (with limitations)
- Certain utility company work
- Emergency repairs under specific conditions
Review § 489.103 in full to determine if your specific work qualifies for exemption.
State Licensing Board Contact
Florida Electrical Contractors' Licensing Board (ECLB), Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- Website: https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/electrical-contractors/
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
- Fla. Stat. § 489.1131 — Credit for relevant military training and education
- Westwood Lakes Municipal Code
The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)