HVAC Licensing in Fern Park CDP, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, anyone performing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration work must hold a valid license unless they qualify for an exemption. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, an "air conditioning contractor" is defined as a person who engages in the business of installing, maintaining, repairing, or retrofitting air conditioning systems. This includes ductwork, refrigerant handling, and system design work. If you perform HVAC work for compensation in Fern Park, you need a state license.

How to Get Licensed

HVAC licensing in Florida is regulated by the Construction Industry Licensing Board under Fla. Stat. § 489.107. To become licensed:

1. Meet Experience Requirements – Per Fla. Stat. § 489.113, applicants must have a minimum of 4 years of documented practical experience in air conditioning work within the 10 years preceding application. Experience must be verified by employers or documented through work records.

2. Pass the Examination – You must pass the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board's air conditioning contractor exam, which covers Florida Statutes Chapter 489, safety codes, and technical competency.

3. Submit Your Application – Apply directly to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Construction Industry Licensing Board. Applications are processed at the state level, not locally.

4. Obtain Your License – Upon passing the exam and meeting all requirements, DBPR issues your state contractor license. This license is valid statewide, including in Fern Park.

Local Requirements

Fern Park CDP is located in Seminole County. Before performing HVAC work in Fern Park, you must:

• Obtain a Local Permit – Contact the Fern Park Building Department to pull permits for specific HVAC projects. Local permits are required in addition to state licensure.
• Check Municipal Code – Review the Fern Park Municipal Code for any local amendments, permit fees, inspection requirements, or additional standards that apply within the town limits.

The Building Department will advise on local permitting procedures, inspection timelines, and any town-specific HVAC regulations.

Exemptions

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

• Employees working under the direct supervision of a licensed contractor
• Owners performing work on their own residential property (not for compensation)
• Manufacturers installing their own equipment
• Utility companies performing work on their own systems

These exemptions do not eliminate the need for local permits; verify with the Fern Park Building Department whether your specific work qualifies.

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
• Fern Park Municipal Code

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