Sewer/Water Licensing in Lantana, Florida
Who Needs a License
In Florida, any person who engages in the business of contracting to construct, repair, or supervise the construction or repair of buildings, structures, or utilities—including sewer and water systems—must obtain a license under Chapter 489, Florida Statutes.[^1]
Specifically, sewer and water work falls under the state's construction licensing regime. If you plan to construct, install, repair, or maintain sewer or water infrastructure in Lantana, you likely need a license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).[^2]
The threshold is whether the work constitutes "construction." Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, construction includes work on utilities serving real property.[^3] Any contracted work on sewer or water systems serving properties in Lantana requires licensing.
How to Get Licensed
Apply through the Construction Industry Licensing Board, which is the state body responsible for issuing all construction licenses in Florida, including those for sewer and water contractors.[^4]
Steps:
1. Determine your license classification (likely "Water/Sewer Contractor" or similar under CILB categories).
2. Meet the experience and education requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which typically require four years of work experience as a journeyman or equivalent in the trade, or an approved vocational program plus reduced experience.[^5]
3. Pass the state licensing exam administered by CILB.
4. Submit your application with proof of experience, exam scores, and liability insurance.
5. Pay the state license fee.
Contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board directly or visit the CILB website for current application procedures, exam schedules, and fees.
Local Requirements
Lantana is located in Palm Beach County, Florida. Before beginning any sewer or water work in Lantana, you must obtain a local permit from the Lantana Building Department.
Refer to the Lantana Municipal Code for any town-specific permitting requirements, fees, or amendments to state licensing standards. Local code may impose additional inspection, bonding, or application requirements.
Contact the Lantana Building Department to confirm permitting procedures and any local amendments before commencing work.
Exemptions
The following are exempt from licensing under Fla. Stat. § 489.103:[^6]
- Owners performing work on their own property (with limitations)
- Employees of licensed contractors working under direct supervision
- Work performed by public utilities and their employees
- Certain specialized work by licensed engineers or architects
However, exemptions are narrow. Any person offering sewer or water services for compensation to the public must be licensed.
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. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107
[^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)