Sewer/Water Licensing in Longwood city, Florida

Who Needs a License

Florida law requires a license for any person who contracts to construct, repair, or maintain sewer or water systems. Under Fla. Stat. § 489.105, a "contractor" performing such work must hold the appropriate state license.

Work that requires licensing includes:
- Installation or repair of sewer lines and systems
- Water line installation, repair, and maintenance
- Septic system work
- Backflow prevention and testing
- Potable and non-potable water system work

If you are offering these services for compensation in Longwood, you must be licensed.

How to Get Licensed

Sewer and water work falls under Florida's construction industry licensing system, regulated by the Construction Industry Licensing Board per Fla. Stat. § 489.107.

Steps to obtain a state license:

1. Meet qualifications under Fla. Stat. § 489.113: Demonstrate relevant work experience (typically 4 years in the trade) or equivalent education, or hold a related degree.

2. Pass the state exam: The Construction Industry Licensing Board administers licensing exams covering sewer and water contractor classifications.

3. Apply with the state: Submit your application to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) with proof of experience, exam passage, and any required certifications.

4. Obtain workers' compensation insurance: Required before the state will issue your license.

For specific exam dates, application procedures, and fee information, contact the DBPR directly or visit their website.

Local Requirements

In Longwood city, you must obtain a local construction permit before beginning work. Contact the Longwood Building Department to pull permits for sewer and water projects.

Review the Longwood Municipal Code for any local amendments, additional requirements, or procedures specific to sewer and water work in the city. Local codes may impose supplemental permit fees, inspection schedules, or technical standards beyond state minimums.

Seminole County may also have specific requirements for sewer and water work depending on whether the project involves public or private systems.

Exemptions

Under Fla. Stat. § 489.103, certain work is exempt from licensing, including:
- Work performed by employees of a licensed contractor (under direct supervision)
- Work on your own residential property (owner-builder exemption, with limitations)
- Utility company employees performing work for their employer

However, exemptions are narrowly construed. If you are working for compensation or on a project with multiple residential units, licensing is required.

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
• Longwood Municipal Code

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