Sewer/Water Licensing in Kensington Park 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 valid license under Chapter 489, Florida Statutes. Work involving the installation, alteration, or repair of water distribution lines, sanitary sewer lines, or related infrastructure constitutes regulated contracting work that requires licensure under Fla. Stat. § 489.105.

The specific license class depends on the scope of work. Most sewer and water work falls under the "Water/Sewer and Waste Disposal Contractors" category, though specialty certifications may apply.

How to Get Licensed

  1. Apply to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). DBPR administers licensing for construction trades under the Construction Industry Licensing Board established by Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

  2. Meet experience requirements. Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate four years of experience in the water/sewer field within the ten years preceding application. Experience may be satisfied through apprenticeship, employment, or prior licensure in the same classification.

  3. Pass the licensing exam. DBPR requires a standardized examination covering Florida construction law, safety standards, and trade-specific technical knowledge.

  4. Pay applicable fees. Current fees are set by DBPR and are subject to change.

Contact DBPR's Construction Industry Licensing Board directly for current fee schedules and exam dates. Applications are processed at the state level, not locally.

Local Requirements

Kensington Park is an unincorporated community in Sarasota County. Once licensed by the state, you must obtain county permits for all sewer and water work. Contact the Sarasota County Building Department for permit requirements and applications.

Review the Kensington Park Municipal Code for any local amendments or additional restrictions beyond state law. Local standards may govern excavation, inspection schedules, materials, or environmental protection measures.

Exemptions

Fla. Stat. § 489.103 exempts:
- Work performed by a property owner on their own property (with limitations)
- Work performed by employees of municipalities, water management districts, or public utilities on public infrastructure
- Certain minor repair work as defined by statute

Verify your specific situation against the full statute text—exemptions are narrow and strictly construed.

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

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