Sewer/Water Licensing in Highland Beach, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person engaged in the construction, repair, or maintenance of sanitary or storm sewer systems, water mains, or water service lines must hold a valid license unless they qualify for an exemption. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "water and sewer system contractor" is defined as a contractor who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain sanitary sewers, storm sewers, water mains, or water service lines.

Work that requires licensing includes:
- Installation of new water or sewer lines
- Repair or replacement of existing water or sewer infrastructure
- Inspection and maintenance of sewer/water systems
- Design or supervision of such work

How to Get Licensed

Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, issues sewer and water contractor licenses at the state level.

Step-by-step process:

1. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which requires:
2. A High School diploma or equivalent
3. Four years of experience as a water and sewer system contractor in the five years preceding application, OR equivalent classroom hours and reduced experience

4. Pass the state licensing exam

5. Apply with the CILB (Construction Industry Licensing Board) in Tallahassee. You will submit proof of experience, education, and exam passage.

6. Pass the state exam covering Florida statutes, administrative rules, and trade-specific knowledge.

7. Maintain your license through continuing education and renewal as required by state statute.

For specific application procedures and exam dates, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Local Requirements

Highland Beach, located in Palm Beach County, requires contractors to obtain local permits before performing any licensed trade work. Consult the Highland Beach Municipal Code for any local permit requirements, fees, and procedures specific to the town.

Contractors should:
- Pull permits through the Highland Beach Building Department before beginning work
- Comply with any local amendments or additional standards outlined in the municipal code
- Verify current local ordinances, as they may impose stricter standards than state law

Contact the Highland Beach Building Department for local permitting requirements and procedures.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensing:

• Work performed by a homeowner on their own residential property
• Work performed by employees of a municipality or water management district on public systems
• Construction work performed by contractors licensed in other trades, when incidental to their licensed work
• Installation of water service lines by a water utility or its employees

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
• Highland Beach Municipal Code

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