Sewer/Water Licensing in Highland City CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who engage in the construction, repair, alteration, or maintenance of water and sewer systems must hold a valid license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) unless an exemption applies. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

The work is defined under Florida law as construction activity involving potable water distribution systems, wastewater collection and treatment systems, and related infrastructure. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105]

If you perform sewer or water work in Highland City CDP without proper licensure when required, you are subject to state enforcement action and penalties.

How to Get Licensed

Apply to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB), the statewide agency responsible for issuing all construction trades licenses, including water/sewer contractors. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]

Steps:
1. Meet qualifications: You must demonstrate relevant experience (typically 4 years for a contractor license) and pass the CILB examination covering water and sewer systems, Florida construction law, and code requirements. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]
2. Submit your application to CILB with proof of experience, exam results, and applicable fees.
3. CILB reviews and issues your license upon approval.

Contact the CILB directly through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for current application procedures, exam schedules, and fees. The board maintains jurisdiction over all contractor licensing statewide; there is no separate local licensing authority.

Local Requirements

Permits and Inspections:
Contact the Highland City Building Department to obtain the required construction permit before beginning any sewer or water work. The town enforces local building codes and inspects work for compliance.

Municipal Code:
Review the Highland City Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit procedures, or additional requirements beyond state law. Local ordinances may impose supplemental standards for water/sewer work within town limits.

Exemptions

The following are exempt from licensing requirements under Florida law:

• Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor under direct supervision. [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
• Work performed on a property you own (owner-builder exemptions, subject to limitations). [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
• Work performed by public water and sewer authorities or their employees in their official capacity.

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

• 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
• Highland City Municipal Code

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