HVAC Licensing in Sarasota city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Any person who installs, constructs, alters, repairs, or maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in Sarasota city must hold a valid Florida HVAC license. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, an HVAC contractor is defined as a contractor who engages in the business of installing, maintaining, repairing, or altering air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and refrigeration systems. Work on these systems—whether new construction, modification, or service—is regulated work requiring licensure.

How to Get Licensed

  1. Meet Qualifications: Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, you must demonstrate competency through one of two pathways:
  2. Four years of full-time work experience as an HVAC technician under a licensed HVAC contractor, OR

  3. Two years of full-time work experience plus completion of an approved HVAC technical training program

  4. Apply to the State: Submit your application to the Construction Industry Licensing Board, established under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. This is the state-level board responsible for issuing all construction licenses in Florida.

  5. Pass the Exam: You must pass the Florida HVAC contractor licensing examination administered by the state board. The exam tests knowledge of HVAC installation, repair, maintenance, and Florida construction codes.

  6. Obtain Your License: Upon passing and meeting all requirements, the state board issues your HVAC contractor license.

Local Requirements

Permits for HVAC work in Sarasota city are issued through the Sarasota County Building Department, which enforces building codes for the city. Before beginning HVAC work, obtain a building permit from the county.

Sarasota city and county have adopted regulations under the Sarasota Municipal Code. Contractors should review this code for any local amendments, fee schedules, permit procedures, and additional requirements beyond state law that may apply to HVAC work in the city's jurisdiction.

Contact the Sarasota County Building Department to verify current local permit requirements, fees, and procedures specific to Sarasota city.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from HVAC licensing:
- Employees of the owner performing work solely on the owner's property
- Employees of a licensed HVAC contractor working under direct supervision
- Work performed by manufacturers on their own equipment
- Warranty service performed by manufacturers or their authorized agents

Self-performed work on your own property may be exempt, but verify with the local building department before proceeding.

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

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