Sewer/Water Licensing in Perry, Florida

Who Needs a License

In Florida, any person who contracts to install, construct, alter, repair, or maintain potable water systems, wastewater systems, or related infrastructure must hold a state license as a contractor. Work that requires licensing includes the design, installation, and servicing of water supply lines, sanitary sewers, stormwater systems, and related plumbing infrastructure when performed under contract.[^1]

The specific classification depends on the scope of work. Florida law defines regulated construction activity to include all work that materially affects public health, safety, or welfare.[^2]

How to Get Licensed

Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board administers contractor licensing statewide.

Steps:

1. Determine your classification: Sewer/water work typically falls under a general contractor, water well contractor, or plumbing contractor classification, depending on scope.

2. Meet qualifications: You must demonstrate four years of experience in the sewer/water field (or equivalent combination of education and experience), pass a Florida state examination, and provide proof of financial responsibility.[^3]

3. Apply to the state: Submit your application to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Construction Industry Licensing Board. Include exam results, experience documentation, and proof of workers' compensation insurance.

4. Obtain state license: Once approved, you receive your Florida contractor license, which is valid statewide.

Local Requirements

Perry Building Department: Contact the City of Perry Building Department to obtain local building permits for all sewer and water work within city limits. Perry falls under Taylor County jurisdiction for some permitting matters; confirm with the city which permits apply to your specific project.

Municipal Code: Refer to the Perry Municipal Code for any local amendments, additional design standards, or inspection requirements that may apply beyond state law. Review this code before beginning work to ensure compliance with local ordinances.

Local Inspection: All work must pass local inspection. Schedule inspections through the Perry Building Department before closing walls or covering underground lines.

Exemptions

Certain activities are exempt from licensing requirements under Florida law:

• Homeowners: Property owners performing work on their own property for their own use.[^4]
• Employees: Persons employed by a licensed contractor working under direct supervision of that contractor.
• Public agencies: Work performed by employees of governmental entities.
• Emergency repairs: Temporary emergency repairs, though permanent repairs must be licensed.[^4]

Property managers and maintenance personnel employed to maintain existing systems (rather than contract for new installation or major alteration) may also be exempt depending on the specific nature of work.

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

[^1]: Fla. Stat. § 489.105 — Definitions
[^2]: Fla. Stat. § 489.113 — Qualifications for practice; restrictions
[^3]: Fla. Stat. § 489.107 — Construction Industry Licensing Board
[^4]: Fla. Stat. § 489.103 — Exemptions

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