Florida
House Bill 735
Update: FL Senate Bill 1142
On May 29, 2024, Florida Senate Bill 1142 was signed into law, extending the expiration of local licensing requirements to July 1, 2025. This extension also prolongs the timeframe for the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) to establish new specialty licenses.
Key Provisions of Senate Bill 1142
Extended Deadline for Local Licensing Expiration:
- The expiration date for local government occupational licensing requirements has been extended to July 1, 2025.
New Timeline for Specialty Contractor Categories:
- By July 1, 2025, the CILB is required to establish certified specialty contractor categories for voluntary licensure. These categories include:
- Structural aluminum or screen enclosures
- Marine seawall work
- Marine bulkhead work
- Marine dock work
- Marine pile driving
- Structural masonry
- Structural prestressed, precast concrete work
- Rooftop solar heating installation
- Structural steel
- Window and door installation, including garage door installation and hurricane or windstorm protection
- Plaster and lath
- Structural carpentry
- By July 1, 2025, the CILB is required to establish certified specialty contractor categories for voluntary licensure. These categories include:
Registered Licenses Without Exam:
- The CILB must issue registered licenses without an exam to certain contractors if the following requirements are met:
- The applicant held a certificate of registration or local license in any Florida jurisdiction during 2021, 2022, or 2023.
- The applicant provides:
- Evidence of the certificate of registration or local license.
- Proof that the local jurisdiction does not have a license type available for the category of work for which the applicant was licensed.
- Evidence of fee payment.
- Evidence of compliance with insurance and financial responsibility requirements.
- The CILB must issue registered licenses without an exam to certain contractors if the following requirements are met:
Disciplinary Authority:
- The CILB is responsible for disciplining contractors who receive these licenses.
- The registered licenses must be renewed every two years.
Phasing Out Local Contractor Licensing
In 2021, Florida enacted House Bill 735, which implemented significant changes to how contractors obtain licenses in the state. This law will eliminate local contractor licensing rules by July 1, 2024. It has been extended several times. After this date, local Certificates of Competency will no longer be valid, and contractors will need to transition to statewide licenses.
Understanding HB 735 and Its Implications
House Bill 735 aims to make licensing more consistent throughout Florida. This bill changes how local governments can regulate contractor licenses for certain job scopes that don’t need state licenses.
According to HB 735, local governments can no longer require a state or local license to obtain a permit for various job scopes. This rule prevents local governments from mandating licenses for categories not approved by the state. This makes it simpler for contractors to work in various areas.
The job scopes that are specifically mentioned in the bill as not requiring local licenses include:
- Painting
- Flooring
- Cabinetry
- Interior remodeling (where no state license is required)
- Driveway or tennis court installation
- Handyman services
- Decorative stone, tile, marble, granite, or terrazzo installation
- Plastering
- Pressure washing
- Stuccoing
- Caulking
- Canvas awning and ornamental iron installation
This list shows the tasks that contractors can now do without needing local certifications. It covers a wide range of activities.
Additional Guidance Provided by House Bill 1383
To further clarify and support the implementation of HB 735, the governor signed House Bill 1383 into law on June 20, 2023. This bill provides additional guidance by introducing new license classifications at the state level. By July 1, 2024, the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board will establish certified specialty contractor categories for voluntary licensure. These categories include:
- Structural aluminum or screen enclosures
- Marine seawall work
- Marine bulkhead work
- Marine dock work
- Marine pile driving
- Structural masonry
- Structural prestressed, precast concrete work
- Rooftop solar heating installation
- Structural steel
- Window and door installation, including garage door installation and hurricane or windstorm protection
- Plaster and lath
- Structural carpentry
The introduction of these specialty contractor categories aims to ensure that all relevant contractor activities are covered under state licensure. This method makes licensing easier and sets consistent rules in Florida, helping contractors and customers alike.
Impact on Local Contractor Licenses
The phase out of local licensing in Florida means that contractors in places like Collier County and Broward County will no longer be able to rely on local certificates. This statewide shift simplifies the licensing process but requires adaptation from contractors accustomed to local regulations.
In Collier County, for example, contractors have traditionally obtained local Certificates of Competency to perform various tasks. With the new regulations, these local certifications will be invalidated, requiring contractors to apply for state licenses.
This change may be hard for local contractors at first. It is meant to make licensing rules more consistent and easier to follow. The change will apply throughout the state.
Similarly, Broward County has had its own set of local licensing requirements. The implementation of HB 735 will necessitate a shift from these local certificates to state-issued licenses. Contractors will need to familiarize themselves with the new state requirements and ensure they meet the necessary criteria to obtain statewide licensure.
How Contractor Licensing Pros Can Help
As these changes come into effect, Contractor Licensing Pros is here to assist contractors in navigating the transition. We stay up-to-date with the latest developments in HB 735 Florida updates and HB 1383 to provide accurate and timely support. We can help you get the licenses you need to follow the new rules and keep your business running smoothly.
Our team understands the complexities of the new legislation and is equipped to help you through the entire process. Whether you’re wondering, “What does HB 735 mean?” or seeking to understand the broader implications of the Florida contractor license changes, we are here to help. We help you understand the rules and move to the new licensing system smoothly with personalized support.
The Broader Impact of HB 735 on the Contractor Industry
The implementation of HB 735 represents a significant shift in how contractor licensing is managed in Florida. The state is improving the licensing process by eliminating local licenses for certain job types. Instead, they are introducing new state-level specialty contractor categories. This change will make the process more efficient and consistent.
One of the key benefits of this new approach is the reduction in administrative burden for contractors. Before, contractors had to deal with various local licensing rules in different areas, which was time-consuming and expensive. Contractors can now get one license for the whole state, making it easier to work and reducing paperwork.
Furthermore, the new legislation aims to enhance consumer protection by ensuring that all contractors meet consistent state standards. This approach helps to prevent unlicensed or under-qualified contractors from operating, thereby improving the overall quality of services provided to consumers.
Preparing for the Transition
As the July 1, 2024 deadline approaches, it is crucial for contractors to start preparing for the transition to state-level licensing. Here are some steps to consider:
Review the New Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the new licensing categories and requirements outlined in HB 735 and HB 1383. Ensure you understand the specific criteria for the type of work you perform.
Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documentation, such as proof of experience, education, and any existing certifications that may be required for the state licensing process.
Apply Early: Start the application process early to avoid any delays. To get your license faster, submit your application early due to the large number of expected applications.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any additional guidance or updates from the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board. Regularly check their website and subscribe to relevant industry newsletters for the latest information.
Seek Professional Assistance: Consider working with a professional licensing service, like Contractor Licensing Pros, to help navigate the application process and ensure compliance with all requirements.
Get Help Navigating Florida's New Licensing Laws
The phase out of local licensing in Florida, as mandated by HB 735, marks a significant change for the contractor industry. While this transition may present challenges, it ultimately aims to create a more streamlined and consistent licensing process that benefits both contractors and consumers.
Contractor Licensing Pros is dedicated to helping contractors successfully navigate these changes. We stay current with the latest changes in state licensing rules. We provide personalized help to ensure you meet these new requirements. Stay informed and prepared with Contractor Licensing Pros, your partner in navigating Florida’s evolving contractor licensing landscape.
For more information or assistance with your statewide license application, contact us today.
