HVAC Licensing in Jay, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who installs, constructs, repairs, or maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in Jay must hold a valid Florida HVAC contractor license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, an HVAC contractor is defined as a person who engages in the business of installing, constructing, repairing, servicing, or maintaining air conditioning, heating, or refrigeration systems.

Work requiring licensure includes new system installation, replacements, repairs, maintenance contracts, and ductwork installation. Single-phase equipment servicing and minor repairs by unlicensed technicians may fall under exemptions (see below).

How to Get Licensed

HVAC licensing in Florida is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps:

1. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113: You must have a combination of education, experience, and competency. Most applicants demonstrate this through:
2. Four years of practical experience in HVAC work, OR
3. Two years of practical experience plus an accredited HVAC program certificate, OR

4. Equivalent work history in related mechanical trades

5. Pass the HVAC contractor exam administered by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board.

6. Apply with the state through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Construction Industry Licensing Board.

7. Obtain workers' compensation insurance as required by state law.

8. Register locally with Jay to conduct business (see Local Requirements).

Local Requirements

Permits and local registration in Jay are handled through the Jay Building Department under the Jay Municipal Code. Contact the Jay Building Department to:

• Obtain a local building permit before beginning HVAC work
• Register as a licensed contractor doing business in Jay
• Verify any local amendments to state licensing requirements

Consult the Jay Municipal Code for specific local ordinances regarding contractor registration, permit fees, and inspection requirements in Santa Rosa County.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from HVAC licensing:

• Employees performing work under direct supervision of a licensed HVAC contractor
• In-house maintenance by employees of businesses maintaining their own equipment (not for public service)
• Manufacturers performing warranty work on their own equipment
• Guaranteed energy savings contractors under Fla. Stat. § 489.145, if they meet performance contracting standards

Homeowners performing work on their own single-family residence may not require a license, but any contractor hired must be licensed.

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
• Jay Municipal Code

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