HVAC Licensing in Mulberry, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person or entity performing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or refrigeration work in Mulberry must hold a valid Florida HVAC license, unless exempt. This includes installation, repair, maintenance, and alteration of HVAC systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Florida Statute § 489.105 defines "air conditioning contractor" as a person who engages in the business of designing, installing, maintaining, or servicing air conditioning, heating, ventilation, or refrigeration systems. The work itself—not the business entity—determines whether licensing is required.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Meet Qualifications
You must satisfy one of Florida's experience pathways under Fla. Stat. § 489.113. Typical requirements include:
- Four years of documented experience as an HVAC technician or equivalent apprenticeship
- High school diploma or GED
- Pass a trade-specific examination administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board

Step 2: Apply to the State
Apply with the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107). The Board reviews applications, verifies experience, and administers exams. You will need to submit proof of experience, education, and pass the HVAC contractor examination.

Step 3: Obtain Local Permit
After receiving your state license, contact the Mulberry Building Department to pull any required local permits before beginning work within the city limits.

Local Requirements

Mulberry is located in Polk County, Florida. The city operates under its own municipal code governing construction trades and permitting. Review the Mulberry Municipal Code for local amendments, permit procedures, fees, and any additional requirements specific to HVAC work within city limits.

Contact the Mulberry Building Department for current local permit requirements, fees, and application procedures.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from HVAC licensing requirements:
- Employees of a licensed HVAC contractor when working under direct supervision
- Owners of residential property performing work on their own home
- Employees of the property owner performing work on that owner's property
- Certain government employees in official capacity

Work on guaranteed energy, water, or wastewater performance savings contracts may have modified licensing requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.145.

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. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
• Fla. Stat. § 489.145 — Guaranteed energy, water, and wastewater performance savings contracting
• Mulberry Municipal Code

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