Sewer/Water Licensing in Highland Park village, Florida
Who Needs a License
In Florida, individuals performing sewer or water work must hold an active license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Work that requires licensing includes installation, repair, maintenance, and alteration of water and sewer systems serving residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
Florida Statute § 489.105 defines the scope of regulated construction work. Sewer and water contractors perform work that directly impacts public health and safety systems, making licensure mandatory under Fla. Stat. § 489.113.
How to Get Licensed
State Licensing Process:
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Apply to the Construction Industry Licensing Board under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The Board issues and renews all construction licenses in Florida per Fla. Stat. § 489.107.
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Meet qualifications established in Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which requires:
- Proof of experience in sewer/water work
- Passing the state licensing examination specific to your trade classification
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Submission of required documentation and fees
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Submit your application to DBPR. Contact the Construction Industry Licensing Board directly for current application procedures, required documentation, examination dates, and licensing fees. The Board's website provides application forms and detailed requirements.
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Pass the state exam demonstrating knowledge of Florida construction codes, sewer/water system standards, and safety regulations.
Local Requirements
Highland Park village is located in Polk County, Florida. Before commencing work:
- Obtain a local permit from the Highland Park village Building Department for any sewer or water work within municipal limits.
- Consult the Highland Park Municipal Code at https://library.municode.com/fl/highland-park-village-florida for any local amendments, additional licensing requirements, permit procedures, or impact fees specific to the village.
- Contact the Highland Park Building Department to determine permit application procedures, local inspection requirements, and any supplemental documentation needed before work begins.
Local permitting requirements exist independently of state licensure. You must hold a valid state license AND comply with Highland Park's local permit process.
Exemptions
Fla. Stat. § 489.103 provides exemptions from state licensing for certain activities:
- Homeowner exemptions: A property owner performing work on their own residential property may be exempt under specific conditions outlined in the statute.
- Employees under supervision: Individuals working under the direct supervision of a licensed contractor performing work within the contractor's licensed scope may be exempt.
- Public utility employees: Certain employees of municipal water and sewer utilities performing work in their official capacity may qualify for exemptions.
Verify your specific situation against Fla. Stat. § 489.103 before assuming exemption status.
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 Park Municipal Code
The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)