Sewer/Water Licensing in Seminole city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires licensing for persons who engage in the construction, repair, alteration, or improvement of water and sewer systems. Work that modifies, installs, or maintains potable water supply systems, wastewater collection systems, or on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems constitutes regulated construction activity under Fla. Stat. § 489.105 and § 489.113.

If you perform sewer or water work in Seminole city without proper licensure, you violate state law and may face penalties including fines and injunctions against further work.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Determine Your License Category
Florida issues separate licenses for water systems and wastewater systems contractors. Review Fla. Stat. § 489.113 to confirm which license applies to your work scope.

Step 2: Meet Qualifications
Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must meet experience and education requirements specific to your license category. This typically includes a combination of practical experience (often 4+ years) and technical education. Requirements vary by license type.

Step 3: Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board
The Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107, issues all construction licenses in Florida. Apply directly to the state board—not the city or county—for your sewer/water contractor license.

Step 4: Pass the Licensing Exam
You must pass a state-administered exam covering code knowledge, business practices, and technical competency for your license category.

Step 5: Pay State Fees
Submit the required application and licensing fees to the state board with your exam results.

Once licensed by the state, your license is valid throughout Florida, including Seminole city.

Local Requirements

Seminole city is located in Pinellas County. Before beginning sewer or water work, you must obtain a local construction permit from the Seminole city Building Department. Contact the Seminole city Building Department to determine specific permit requirements, application procedures, and fees for your project.

Refer to the Seminole Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit procedures, or additional requirements that apply within city limits. Local codes may impose inspections, bonding, or other conditions beyond state licensing.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing requirements, including:
- Work performed by a homeowner on his or her own residential property (not for resale or profit)
- Certain utility company employees performing work within the scope of their employment

All other sewer and water work requires state licensure.

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

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