Contractor Licensing in Belleair Shore, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida requires licensure for anyone performing construction work that meets the statutory definition of a "contractor." Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a contractor is a person who undertakes to, offers to, or does itself to construct, demolish, alter, repair, add to, subtract from, improve, move, wreck, or excavate any building, highway, road, railroad, excavation, or other structure, project, development, or improvement to real property.

Work requiring a license includes general contracting, roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other skilled trades as defined under state law. If your work involves construction services for compensation, you almost certainly need a license.

How to Get Licensed

Florida issues contractor licenses through the Construction Industry Licensing Board, which operates under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps to licensure:

1. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which requires documented experience in the trade, financial responsibility, and good moral character.

2. Pass the licensing examination as required by Fla. Stat. § 489.111. You must demonstrate knowledge of Florida construction law, safety, and trade-specific standards.

3. Apply through the state board—not through the town. The Construction Industry Licensing Board administers applications and examinations statewide.

4. Obtain a town permit after receiving your state license. You must then register with Belleair Shore before performing work locally.

Consult Fla. Stat. § 489.113 for specific experience requirements, which vary by contractor class (General, Specialty, etc.).

Local Requirements

Belleair Shore is located in Pinellas County. After obtaining your state contractor license, you must comply with the Belleair Shore Municipal Code before beginning work in town.

Review the Belleair Shore Municipal Code for local licensing, permit, and registration requirements specific to the town. The municipal code may impose additional requirements beyond state law, such as local registration fees, proof of insurance, or bonding.

Contact the Belleair Shore Building Department to determine the specific local permit and registration process for your trade.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain individuals and work from state licensing requirements:

• Work performed on your own property for your own use (not for sale or lease)
• Owners performing work on their own single-family residence
• Certain agricultural work
• Work by employees under a licensed contractor's direct supervision

These exemptions do not necessarily apply to work performed for compensation or in commercial settings. Local ordinances may also impose separate requirements even where state licensure is exempted.

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. § 489.111 — Licensure by examination
• Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Belleair Shore Municipal Code

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