Sewer/Water Licensing in Holden Heights CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who construct, repair, or install water and sewer systems must hold a valid license issued by the state. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" performing work on water and sewer infrastructure is subject to licensing requirements. The specific trades include Class A Contractor, Class B Contractor, and Class C Contractor categories, each with defined scope limitations.

Work that requires licensing includes installation of water mains, sewer lines, septic systems, and related underground utility work. Fla. Stat. § 489.113 restricts unlicensed persons from performing this work and establishes penalties for violations.

How to Get Licensed

Florida contractors must apply through the Construction Industry Licensing Board, which operates under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The process requires:

  1. Determine your contractor class based on the scope of work you intend to perform (Class A, B, or C).
  2. Meet qualifications under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, including:
  3. Four years of active experience in the trade (or equivalent education/apprenticeship combination)
  4. Proof of workers' compensation insurance
  5. General liability insurance
  6. Pass the state licensing exam for your contractor class.
  7. Submit your application to the Construction Industry Licensing Board with required documentation, exam results, and proof of insurance.
  8. Pay applicable fees.

The Board does not operate at the local level; all licensing is administered at the state level through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Local Requirements

Holden Heights CDP is located in Orange County, Florida. While state licensing is required, local permits must be obtained before beginning work. Contact the Orange County Building Department or the Holden Heights Building Department to:

Refer to the Holden Heights Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional restrictions beyond state law.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work from licensing requirements:
- Work performed by a property owner on their own residential property (with limitations)
- Work performed by employees of the property owner under direct supervision
- Maintenance and repair of existing systems by employees of water/sewer utilities

All other commercial and new installation work requires a valid state license.

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)