Sewer/Water Licensing in Lake Worth Beach, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who engage in the business of constructing, repairing, or maintaining water and sewer systems must hold a state contractor's license unless specifically exempt. The work regulated under this trade includes installation, alteration, and repair of potable water supply systems, wastewater collection systems, and related infrastructure. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] defines the scope of regulated construction activities. If you perform this work for compensation in Lake Worth Beach, you require a license.

How to Get Licensed

Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board issues contractor licenses for water and sewer work. To qualify:

1. Experience & Education: You must meet minimum experience requirements (typically 4 years in the specific trade within the 10 years preceding application) or hold an equivalent combination of education and experience. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

2. Exam: Pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board examination covering trade knowledge, Florida law, and safety standards.

3. Application: Submit your application to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), which administers licensing on behalf of the Construction Industry Licensing Board. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]

4. Fees: Pay the current state licensing fee (check DBPR's website for current amounts).

Detailed requirements are found in [Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions].

Local Requirements

Lake Worth Beach operates under the Lake Worth Beach Municipal Code. Check Lake Worth Beach Municipal Code for local permit requirements, local licensing fees, and any municipal amendments to state standards.

Permits for sewer and water work in Lake Worth Beach are issued through the City of Lake Worth Beach Building Department. Contact the Lake Worth Beach Building Department to determine whether your specific project requires a local permit in addition to your state license, and to confirm current local fees and inspection procedures.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensure under [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]:

• Employees working under a licensed contractor's direct supervision and in the contractor's name
• Work performed on your own residence (owner-builder exemption, subject to specific limitations)
• Municipal employees performing work for a government entity
• Work on property you own, provided you do not represent yourself as a contractor

Note that the owner-builder exemption does not permit you to hire out labor or represent yourself as a licensed contractor.

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 Worth Beach Municipal Code

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