Sewer/Water Licensing in Lake Clarke Shores, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law regulates contractors who construct, repair, or install plumbing systems involving water distribution and sewage disposal. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "plumbing contractor" is defined as a person who engages in the business of installing, repairing, or maintaining water and sewer lines, fixtures, and related systems.

Work that requires licensing includes:
- Installation or repair of water supply lines and sewer lines
- Backflow prevention device installation and testing
- Septic system work (in areas without municipal sewerage)
- Gas piping connected to water/sewer systems

If you perform sewer or water work in Lake Clarke Shores, you must hold an active Florida construction license for plumbing.

How to Get Licensed

1. Meet qualifications: You must satisfy experience and education requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113. For a plumbing contractor license, Florida typically requires 4 years of experience in the trade within the preceding 10 years, or equivalent education/apprenticeship.

2. Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board: Submit your application to the state board established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. The board reviews qualifications and administers exams.

3. Pass the licensing exam: You must pass the Florida construction trades exam specific to plumbing/sewer-water work.

4. Obtain your license: Upon approval, the state issues your Florida construction license.

The state board does not issue local licenses; your Florida state license is your authorization to work.

Local Requirements

Lake Clarke Shores is located in Palm Beach County, Florida. Before beginning sewer or water work in Lake Clarke Shores:

• Permits: Contact the Lake Clarke Shores Building Department to obtain required work permits for any sewer/water project within town limits.

• Municipal Code: Review the Lake Clarke Shores Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, or additional standards that may apply beyond state law.

• County Coordination: Palm Beach County may also have permit and inspection requirements; confirm with the town building department whether your project requires county approval.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing:
- Property owners performing work on their own residential property (with limitations)
- Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor under direct supervision
- Routine maintenance or repair of existing systems by property owners

Verify exemption applicability with the town building department before proceeding without a license.

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
• Lake Clarke Shores Municipal Code

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