Sewer/Water Licensing in Sarasota city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law regulates work involving the installation, repair, and maintenance of water and sewer systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" in this field must be licensed if they engage in construction work related to water supply, sanitary sewer, or storm sewer systems.

Specifically, any person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain water or sewer infrastructure—whether as a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation—must hold the appropriate state license before performing or offering to perform such work in Sarasota city.

How to Get Licensed

Licensing is administered by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under authority of Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps:
1. Verify your trade classification under Fla. Stat. § 489.105 (water/sewer contractor or related specialty).
2. Meet qualifications per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, which requires:
- Four years of experience in the trade within the past five years, OR
- An equivalent combination of formal education and experience
- Proof of workers' compensation insurance
- Pass a state licensing examination covering trade knowledge and Florida construction law
3. Apply through the Construction Industry Licensing Board (state-level application; not local).
4. Pass the examination and pay applicable state fees.
5. Obtain your state license certificate before beginning work.

The Board's examination tests technical competency specific to water and sewer construction, installation codes, and safety standards.

Local Requirements

Sarasota city requires all contractors—including water/sewer specialists—to obtain a local permit before starting work. Contact the Sarasota Building Department to pull permits for specific projects.

Local amendments and additional requirements may be contained in the Sarasota Municipal Code. Review the applicable chapters for Sarasota city regulations on construction permitting, inspections, and any local licensing surcharges or bonding requirements beyond state law.

Sarasota County (the broader jurisdiction) may impose county-level requirements; verify which authority has jurisdiction over your project location.

Exemptions

Per Fla. Stat. § 489.103, the following are exempt from licensing requirements:
- Employees working under a licensed contractor's direct supervision
- Owners performing work on their own property (with specific limitations)
- Workers employed by public utilities or municipal water authorities performing routine maintenance
- Certain specialty work performed under exemptions defined in § 489.103

Review the statute to confirm your specific situation qualifies for exemption.

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)