Contractor Licensing in Marathon, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for individuals and entities performing construction work that involves the construction, remodeling, alteration, repair, or improvement of buildings and structures. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "construction" includes work on residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

The specific trade categories requiring state licensure are defined in Fla. Stat. § 489.105. If your work falls within these regulated categories—such as general contracting, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or other specialty trades—you must obtain a state license before performing work in Marathon.

Work performed by employees of licensed contractors under direct supervision, and certain exempt activities listed below, do not require individual licensing.

How to Get Licensed

1. Determine Your Trade Category: Identify which license type applies to your work under Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

2. Meet Qualifications: You must satisfy experience and education requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113. These requirements vary by trade and include combinations of work experience, apprenticeship, or formal education.

3. Pass the Examination: Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107) to sit for the licensing exam. The exam covers trade-specific knowledge and Florida construction law.

4. Submit Application: File your application with the state licensing board with proof of qualification and exam passage per Fla. Stat. § 489.111.

5. Obtain Your License: Once approved, you will receive your state contractor license.

Local Requirements

In Marathon, Monroe County, you must comply with the Marathon Municipal Code, available at https://library.municode.com/fl/marathon.

Before beginning work, you are required to obtain local building permits from the Marathon Building Department. Contact the Marathon Building Department to determine specific permit requirements, fees, and inspection procedures for your project. Local amendments or additional requirements beyond state law may apply—review the municipal code and consult with the building department.

Exemptions

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

• Employees of licensed contractors working under the contractor's direct supervision
• Owners performing work on their own property (with limitations)
• Certain utility work performed by utility companies
• Work on farm buildings and certain agricultural structures

Other exemptions may apply—consult Fla. Stat. § 489.103 for a complete list.

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. § 489.111 — Licensure by examination
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Marathon Municipal Code

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