Sewer/Water Licensing in Winter Park, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to construct, repair, or install sewers, water mains, or water service lines must hold a valid license under Chapter 489, Florida Statutes. Fla. Stat. § 489.105 defines regulated work in this classification. A Sewer and Water Contractor license is required if you offer these services to the public for compensation, whether as an individual, partnership, or corporation operating in Winter Park or Orange County.

Unlicensed practice of this trade is illegal and subject to penalties including fines and injunctions.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Qualifications
You must satisfy requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113. This typically requires documented experience in sewer and water work, usually a minimum of four years of hands-on experience in the trade within the five years preceding application.

Step 2: Pass the Exam
Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The CILB administers the licensing examination for Sewer and Water Contractors. You must pass both the business and law portion and the trade-specific portion.

Step 3: Apply with CILB
Submit your application, proof of experience, exam passing scores, and applicable fees to the CILB. The board is the sole issuing authority for state licenses.

Step 4: Obtain Local Authorization
Once licensed by the state, contact the Winter Park Building Department for local permit requirements and authorization to perform work within city limits.

Local Requirements

Winter Park operates under its own municipal code. Review the Winter Park Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit requirements, or additional restrictions on sewer and water work within city boundaries. Local permits and approvals are required in addition to state licensure.

Contact the Winter Park Building Department to confirm current local requirements, permit procedures, and any fees applicable to sewer and water projects in the city.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 provides exemptions from licensure for certain work, including work performed on property by the owner for personal use and certain public utility work. However, these exemptions are narrow and do not apply to most commercial or residential contracting. If you contract work to others or work on property you do not own, a license is required.

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
• Winter Park Municipal Code

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