Sewer/Water Licensing in Greenacres city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who undertakes to construct, repair, or supervise the construction or repair of water or sewer systems must hold a valid license as a Water/Sewer Contractor.[^1] This includes installation, maintenance, and alteration of potable water supply systems, wastewater collection systems, and related infrastructure.

Work that constitutes the practice of the trade—such as designing layouts, installing pipes and fittings, testing systems, or directing workers on such projects—requires licensure under Florida law. The specific activities regulated are defined in Fla. Stat. § 489.105.[^2]

How to Get Licensed

Licensing is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.[^3]

Steps to obtain a Water/Sewer Contractor license:

1. Meet qualifications: You must demonstrate competency through one of the following:
2. Four years of experience in water/sewer work within the past 10 years, with documented proof, OR
3. Completion of an apprenticeship program approved by the state, OR

4. A combination of education and experience meeting state standards.[^4]

5. Pass the exam: The state administers a licensing exam covering code knowledge, safety, and technical competency for water/sewer contractors. You may take the exam after meeting experience or education requirements.

6. Apply through the state: Submit your application, supporting documentation (work history, references, exam results), and fees to the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Application processing typically takes 4–6 weeks.

7. Obtain your license: Once approved, your license is valid statewide, including in Greenacres city.

Refer to Fla. Stat. § 489.113 for complete qualification requirements and restrictions on who may apply.[^5]

Local Requirements

All water and sewer work in Greenacres city requires a permit from the Greenacres Building Department. Contact the Building Department to determine permit fees, inspection schedules, and any additional local standards that apply.

Greenacres' local code provisions are available in the Greenacres Municipal Code. Review this for any local amendments or supplementary requirements beyond state law. Palm Beach County may also have jurisdiction over certain utility infrastructure; confirm with the Building Department which authority has oversight for your specific project.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensing requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.103:[^6]

• Owners performing work on their own property (residential only, in some cases)
• Public employees performing work as part of official duties
• Work performed on military installations by military personnel
• Certain maintenance and repair work performed by utility companies on their own systems (subject to conditions)

Any work performed for compensation or as a business enterprise requires a license, even if performed by an owner on their property.

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

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^5]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^6]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions

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