Plumbing Licensing in Desoto Lakes CDP, Florida
Who Needs a License
Any person who installs, constructs, repairs, or maintains plumbing systems in Desoto Lakes must hold a valid Florida plumbing license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, plumbing work is defined as the installation, maintenance, and repair of pipes, fixtures, and appurtenances for the conveyance and distribution of water and removal of waterborne wastes. This includes water supply lines, drainage systems, gas piping (where applicable), and related fixtures.
How to Get Licensed
Florida plumbing licenses are issued by the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107.
Steps to licensure:
- Meet qualification requirements under Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which requires:
- Documented work experience (hours vary by license category)
- Passing score on the Florida plumbing exam
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Proof of financial responsibility or workers' compensation insurance
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Apply directly to the CILB through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
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Pass the state licensing exam covering plumbing codes, safety, and installation standards
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Pay applicable fees and submit required documentation
Consult Fla. Stat. § 489.113 for specific experience hour requirements by license category (journeyman, contractor, etc.).
Local Requirements
Desoto Lakes CDP is located in Sarasota County, Florida. Plumbing work in Desoto Lakes must comply with the Desoto Lakes Municipal Code, available at https://library.municode.com/fl/desoto-lakes-cdp-florida.
Permit requirements:
- Contact the Desoto Lakes Building Department or Sarasota County Building and Permitting Services to pull plumbing permits before beginning work
- Submit proof of current Florida plumbing license with all permit applications
- Follow local amendments to the Florida Building Code adopted by Sarasota County
Review the municipal code link above for any local amendments, fees, or additional administrative procedures specific to Desoto Lakes.
Exemptions
Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts certain work and persons from licensure requirements:
- Homeowners performing work on their own single-family residence (with limitations)
- Installation or repair of certain appliances not classified as plumbing fixtures
- Maintenance performed by property managers or facilities staff under specific conditions
- Work by employees of licensed plumbers under direct supervision
Review Fla. Stat. § 489.103 in full to determine whether your specific work qualifies for an exemption.
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
- Desoto Lakes Municipal Code
The law belongs to the people. Georgia v. Public.Resource.Org, 590 U.S. (2020)