HVAC Licensing in Riviera Beach, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who installs, repairs, or maintains air conditioning and refrigeration systems in Riviera Beach must hold a valid Florida Construction Industry License. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, "air conditioning and refrigeration contractor" is a defined licensed classification. Work that requires licensing includes installation of new systems, replacement of major components, repair of refrigerant circuits, and service calls involving system diagnostics and repairs.

Residential and commercial HVAC work are both regulated. The scope of licensed work extends to ductwork design and installation, thermostat installation, and any work touching the refrigeration circuit.

How to Get Licensed

  1. Meet Qualifications: Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, applicants must demonstrate competency through examination and experience. Florida requires either:
  2. Four years of documented experience as an air conditioning and refrigeration contractor, or

  3. An equivalent combination of classroom hours and on-the-job experience (typically a trade apprenticeship program)

  4. Pass the Exam: Contact the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107) to register for the air conditioning and refrigeration contractor exam. The Board administers all state-level licensing.

  5. Apply for State License: Submit your application, proof of experience, exam results, and applicable fees to the Construction Industry Licensing Board. The Board issues the state license.

  6. Apply Locally in Riviera Beach: Once you hold a valid Florida state license, apply for a local business tax receipt and building trade license through the Riviera Beach Building Department.

Local Requirements

Riviera Beach operates under the Riviera Beach Municipal Code. Applicants should consult Riviera Beach Municipal Code for local amendments, permit procedures, and any additional city-specific requirements beyond state law.

Before beginning any HVAC work in Riviera Beach, you must obtain a permit from the Riviera Beach Building Department. Contact the Building Department to confirm current permit fees, application procedures, and any local inspections required for your specific project.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work from licensing requirements:
- Work performed by employees of licensed contractors under direct supervision
- Certain maintenance and service work by property managers on their own property (with limitations)
- Installation of window air conditioning units (not central systems)

Homeowners performing work on their own primary residence may have limited exemptions, but this does not permit hiring unlicensed individuals. Always verify with the Building Department whether your planned work qualifies for exemption.

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

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