Sewer/Water Licensing in Kathleen CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain public or private water or sewer systems must hold a current license issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board.[^1] This applies to work in Kathleen CDP. The state defines "sewer and water contractor" to include persons engaged in the installation, maintenance, or repair of potable water systems, wastewater systems, irrigation systems, and related infrastructure.[^2]

Unlicensed work in these systems is prohibited and may result in civil penalties and enforcement action by the state.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Qualifications
You must demonstrate four years of experience in sewer and water construction, installation, maintenance, or repair work within the ten-year period preceding application. Alternatively, you may substitute relevant education or apprenticeship hours for a portion of this experience requirement.[^3]

Step 2: Pass the Examination
Apply to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB). You must pass a state examination covering Florida's construction laws, safety standards, and sewer/water system requirements.[^3] The CILB administers this exam; you may contact the CILB through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).

Step 3: Apply for Your License
Submit your application, proof of experience or education, examination results, and applicable fees to the CILB. Your license is issued by the state board, not locally.

Step 4: Local Permit Registration
Once licensed by the state, register with the Polk County Building Department or Kathleen CDP's local building authority before beginning work in Kathleen. Specific local requirements may apply; see Local Requirements below.

Local Requirements

Kathleen CDP is located in Polk County, Florida. Permits and inspections for sewer and water work are typically coordinated through the Polk County Building Department, as Kathleen is an unincorporated community development (CDP).

Consult the Kathleen Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit procedures, or contractor registration requirements specific to this jurisdiction. Contact the Polk County Building Department to confirm current local procedures and fees for sewer/water projects.

Exemptions

Exempt from licensing requirements under Florida law:[^4]

• Work performed on single-family residential properties by the owner, or by a contractor hired by the owner for non-commercial purposes
• Work performed on property owned by a municipality or public utility
• Employees of licensed contractors working under direct supervision
• Installation or repair of private irrigation systems serving a single property (in certain circumstances)

Verify applicability to your specific project with the Polk County Building Department.

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

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions
- Kathleen Municipal Code

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