Engineering Licensing in Holden Heights CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

Work that constitutes "practice of engineering" in Florida requires a license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, this includes services or work for the public in designing structures, systems, or public works; preparing plans and specifications; or offering such services to the public.

Not all construction work requires an engineer. Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work, including work performed by a licensed contractor within their scope, routine maintenance, and minor repairs. However, if your project involves structural design, site engineering, or systems that affect public safety, you likely need a licensed professional engineer.

How to Get Licensed

Florida licenses engineers through the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Steps:

1. Meet qualifications under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which require:
2. Education (typically a degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program)
3. Work experience (generally 4 years of engineering practice under supervision)

4. Passage of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and Professional Engineer (PE) exam

5. Apply to DBPR with proof of education, work experience, and exam scores.

6. Receive your Professional Engineer license from the Construction Industry Licensing Board.

Veterans and service members may receive credit for relevant military training and education per Fla. Stat. § 489.1131.

Local Requirements

Holden Heights CDP is located in Orange County, Florida. Building permits for engineering work are issued through Orange County's building permitting system, not a separate town office, as Holden Heights is an unincorporated community development.

Contractors and engineers must comply with the Holden Heights Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional requirements beyond state law. Review this code before beginning work to verify local setbacks, design standards, or other ordinances that may apply to your project.

Contact the Orange County Building Department to determine permitting requirements and fees for your specific work.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts from licensing:

• Work performed by a licensed general contractor, specialty contractor, or builder acting within their license scope
• Routine maintenance and repair work
• Design work performed exclusively for private residential use (single-family dwellings)
• Certain agricultural structures and equipment

However, exemptions are narrow. When in doubt, consult with the Construction Industry Licensing Board or your local building department.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE)
- Phone: 850-521-0500
- Website: https://fbpe.org/

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
• Holden Heights Municipal Code

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