Plumbing Licensing in Orlando city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who offers to perform plumbing work in Orlando must hold a valid state license. Under Florida law, plumbing is a regulated trade requiring licensure before engaging in work that involves the installation, repair, maintenance, or alteration of water supply lines, drainage systems, or fixture connections [Fla. Stat. § 489.105].

The specific definition of plumbing work is established in state statute and encompasses systems that convey or treat water, gas, or waste in buildings and structures [Fla. Stat. § 489.105].

How to Get Licensed

1. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB): Florida's state board, not a local body, issues all plumbing licenses. Submit your application directly to the CILB.

2. Meet Experience Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate the required years of practical experience as a plumber or apprentice under a licensed plumber [Fla. Stat. § 489.113].

3. Pass the Examination: Complete the state licensing exam administered by the CILB. The exam tests knowledge of Florida plumbing code, safety standards, and trade practices [Fla. Stat. § 489.113].

4. Verify Qualifications: Ensure you meet all statutory qualifications including citizenship or legal residency, age requirements, and lack of disqualifying criminal convictions [Fla. Stat. § 489.113].

Once licensed by the state, your license is valid statewide, including in Orlando. No separate city or county plumbing license is required.

Local Requirements

Permits and Inspections: Before beginning plumbing work in Orlando, obtain a permit from the City of Orlando Building Department. The city enforces the Florida Building Code and its own local amendments through the Orlando Municipal Code [Orlando Municipal Code].

Review the Orlando Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit procedures, fee schedules, and inspection requirements specific to plumbing installations and repairs in the city.

Contact the Orlando Building Department for current permit applications, fees, and inspection scheduling.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensure under Florida law [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]:

• Homeowners performing work on their own residential property
• Employees of property owners performing work on that owner's property
• Installation of water softeners and certain other non-structural water treatment devices
• Repairs by equipment manufacturers

Even if exempted from state licensure, work in Orlando must still comply with local permit requirements and building codes.

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. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Orlando Municipal Code

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