HVAC Licensing in Loxahatchee Groves, Florida

Who Needs a License

HVAC work in Loxahatchee Groves requires state licensure. Under Florida law, any person engaged in the business of installing, servicing, or repairing air conditioning, heating, or refrigeration systems must hold a valid Florida Construction Industry License in the HVAC category.[^1]

The regulated work includes design, installation, maintenance, repair, and alteration of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems serving buildings and structures.[^1] This applies to residential, commercial, and industrial projects within town limits.

How to Get Licensed

HVAC licensing in Florida is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Steps to licensure:

1. Verify qualifications: You must meet education and experience requirements set by statute. Florida law requires either a specified combination of classroom hours and field experience, apprenticeship completion, or equivalent documented experience.[^2]

2. Obtain an application: Apply directly to DBPR/CILB. Applications are submitted through the DBPR licensing portal at the state level—not through Loxahatchee Groves.

3. Pass the state exam: Complete the HVAC contractor examination administered by DBPR. The exam tests knowledge of Florida Building Code, HVAC theory, and applicable statutes.[^3]

4. Provide proof of workers' compensation insurance: Required before license issuance.[^2]

5. Pay applicable fees: State license fees are set by DBPR; local fees may apply separately.

Specific experience hours, exam schedules, and application procedures are determined by DBPR. Contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation directly for current requirements and timelines.

Local Requirements

HVAC work in Loxahatchee Groves must comply with both state law and local municipal code. Before beginning work:

• Pull a permit from the Loxahatchee Groves Building Department
• Verify current local requirements by reviewing the Loxahatchee Groves Municipal Code, which may impose additional local standards or inspection protocols beyond state minimums

Contact the Loxahatchee Groves Building Department for permit applications, local inspection requirements, and any town-specific amendments to state regulations.

Exemptions

Florida law exempts certain minor work from licensing requirements. Exemptions include maintenance and minor repairs that do not involve system design or major equipment replacement, performed by employees of the building owner for internal use only.[^4] However, exemptions are narrowly construed. Any commercial or profit-driven HVAC work requires licensure. Confirm whether your specific work qualifies as exempt by consulting the statute directly.

State Licensing Board Contact

Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), Department of Business and Professional Regulation
- Phone: 850-487-1395
- Website: https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/construction-industry/

References

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

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