Sewer/Water Licensing in Boca Raton city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain potable water systems, wastewater treatment systems, or related infrastructure must hold an active license issued by the state. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] defines regulated construction work to include installation, alteration, repair, and maintenance of water and sewer systems. The specific classifications and scope of work requiring licensure are detailed in state statute and enforced locally in Boca Raton.

How to Get Licensed

Licensing is administered by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]. The process requires:

1. Meet qualifications: Applicants must satisfy education and experience requirements under [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]. For water/sewer contractors, this typically includes four years of active experience in the trade under a licensed contractor, or equivalent combinations of education and experience.

2. Pass the state exam: You must pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board examination covering trade knowledge, law, and business practices.

3. Apply to the state board: Submit your application, proof of qualifications, and exam passage to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board.

4. Obtain local authorization: Once state-licensed, apply with Boca Raton's building department for local licensing or authorization to operate in the city.

Consult [Fla. Stat. § 489.113] for the complete list of acceptable experience combinations and exam requirements.

Local Requirements

Boca Raton enforces building and contractor licensing through its Building Department. All construction work, including sewer and water projects, requires local permits before work begins.

Refer to the Boca Raton Municipal Code for local permitting requirements, fee schedules, and any municipal amendments to state law. The city may impose additional standards for public health and utility connections beyond state minimums.

Contact the Boca Raton Building Department to determine which permits apply to your specific project and to confirm current local requirements.

Exemptions

[Fla. Stat. § 489.103] provides exemptions for certain work and workers, including:

• Property owners performing work on their own property (with significant limitations)
• Work performed by employees of the property owner for maintenance
• Certain minor repairs conducted by licensed plumbers or other trades within their scope

However, most commercial and municipal sewer/water work requires licensure. Review [Fla. Stat. § 489.103] to confirm whether your specific activity qualifies for an exemption.

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
• Boca Raton Municipal Code

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