HVAC Licensing in Palm Beach Shores, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who installs, services, or maintains air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration systems must hold a valid license issued by the state. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "air conditioning contractor" is defined as a person who engages in the business of installing, maintaining, or servicing air conditioning systems. This includes residential and commercial work. If you perform HVAC work for compensation in Palm Beach Shores, you must be licensed.

How to Get Licensed

Florida HVAC licensing is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. Follow these steps:

1. Meet Qualifications: Under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate competency through one of these paths:
2. Complete an apprenticeship program and pass the state exam, or

3. Document equivalent work experience in HVAC and pass the state exam.

4. Prepare and Submit an Application: Contact the Florida CILB (the state licensing authority, not the town). You will need to provide proof of experience, pass a business and law exam, and pass a trade-specific exam.

5. Pay the Application and License Fees: State fees apply; check the CILB website for current amounts.

6. Receive Your License: Once approved, you will receive your state HVAC license.

The state board—not Palm Beach Shores—issues the license. However, you must still comply with local requirements before beginning work.

Local Requirements

Before performing HVAC work in Palm Beach Shores, contact the Palm Beach Shores Building Department to determine:

• Permit Requirements: You must pull permits through the town for most HVAC installations and major service work.
• Local Code Compliance: The Palm Beach Shores Municipal Code governs local construction standards and permitting. Review the code at https://library.municode.com/fl/palm_beach_shores to identify any local amendments or additional requirements beyond state law.

The Building Department will inform you of application procedures, fees, and inspections required.

Exemptions

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

• Employees of licensed contractors working under direct supervision
• Maintenance personnel employed by property owners who service only that owner's equipment
• Manufacturers and wholesalers of air conditioning equipment
• Individuals performing work on their own primary residence (with limitations)

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

• 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
• Palm Beach Shores Municipal Code

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