Sewer/Water Licensing in Lake Mary city, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, persons who engage in sewer or water work must be licensed under the Construction Industry Licensing Board framework. Sewer and water work falls within the definition of "construction" and "contracting" under state law. [Fla. Stat. § 489.105] Anyone performing such work for compensation—including installation, repair, alteration, or maintenance of sewer and water systems—must hold an appropriate license issued by the state, unless they qualify for an exemption.

The specific license category depends on the scope and nature of the work. Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board oversees licensure for these trades. [Fla. Stat. § 489.107]

How to Get Licensed

1. Determine your license type. Consult the Construction Industry Licensing Board to identify whether you need a contractor, specialty contractor, or registered professional license for your specific sewer/water work scope.

2. Meet qualification requirements. You must satisfy experience, education, and competency standards set by Florida law. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113] This typically includes documented work experience in the trade and passing a state licensing exam.

3. Apply with the state. Submit your application to the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (not a local office). Include proof of qualifications, exam results, and required documentation.

4. Obtain insurance and bonding. Florida law requires licensed contractors to maintain liability insurance and surety bonds as specified by statute. [Fla. Stat. § 489.113]

5. Register locally in Lake Mary. Once you hold a state license, you must register with the Lake Mary Building Department before performing work in the city.

Local Requirements

All sewer and water contractors must obtain a permit from the Lake Mary Building Department before beginning work. Contact the Lake Mary Building Department for specific permit application procedures, fees, and documentation requirements.

The Lake Mary Municipal Code governs local permitting and contractor registration. Review this code for any amendments, local standards, or additional requirements beyond state law.

Seminole County may also regulate certain water and sewer work depending on whether the system is municipal or county-operated.

Exemptions

Persons exempt from licensing include:

• Homeowners performing work on their own property (without offering the work to the public or accepting compensation). [Fla. Stat. § 489.103]
• Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor acting under direct supervision, if the employee does not hold themselves out as a contractor.
• Certain minor repairs that do not constitute substantial alteration or new installation—though sewer and water work is heavily regulated, and exemptions are narrow.

Verify with the Construction Industry Licensing Board whether your specific work qualifies for an 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

• 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
• Lake Mary Municipal Code

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