Sewer/Water Licensing in Union Park CDP, Florida
Who Needs a License
In Florida, individuals performing work on sewage and water systems must hold a Construction Industry License as a contractor or specialty contractor. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "contractor" includes those engaged in the business of building, altering, repairing, or improving any building or structure. Sewer and water work falls within this definition and requires licensure unless an exemption applies.
The specific scope depends on the contractor classification. A Certified Plumbing Contractor, for example, is licensed to perform plumbing work including installation and repair of water supply, drainage, and sewage systems. Work on public or private septic systems, water lines, and related infrastructure typically requires a license.
How to Get Licensed
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Determine your classification: Identify whether you need a General Contractor, Specialty Contractor (Plumbing), or other license based on the scope of work.
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Apply with the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board: Per Fla. Stat. § 489.107, the Construction Industry Licensing Board issues and regulates all construction licenses in Florida.
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Meet qualifications: Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate competency through examination and documented experience. Requirements vary by license class but typically include:
- Passing the appropriate Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board exam
- Documented years of active work experience in the trade
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A responsible managing employee (RME) for your company
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Submit application materials: Applications go directly to the state board, not the local municipality.
Local Requirements
Union Park CDP is located in Orange County, Florida. Regardless of state licensure, contractors performing sewer and water work in Union Park must:
- Obtain local permits through the Orange County building permitting authority or Union Park's local building department before commencing work
- Comply with local amendments to state construction standards, which may exist in the Union Park Municipal Code
Contact the Union Park Building Department or Orange County Building Department to confirm current permit requirements and local amendments applicable to your project.
Exemptions
Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, licensing exemptions apply to:
- Property owners performing work on their own residential property (with limitations)
- Work performed by utility companies on their own facilities
- Certain maintenance and repair work in limited circumstances
However, exemptions do not eliminate the requirement to pull local permits. Verify your specific work scope qualifies for exemption before proceeding.
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
- 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
- Union Park Municipal Code
The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)