Fort Lauderdale Plumber License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. Florida plumbing contractor license (DBPR CILB)
   Florida law says nobody may run a contracting business without being certified (statewide) or registered (local) in the proper classification. Plumbing contractor is its own classification. Unlicensed workers may only work under a licensed contractor's supervision.
   ⏰ Renew with DBPR each cycle, with continuing education (check the date on your license)
   Source: Florida Statutes §489.105 (contractor definitions) · Florida Statutes §489.115 (contractors must be certified or registered; renewals; CE)
2. Business name and entity filings (Sunbiz)
   LLCs and corporations file an annual report ($138.75 for an LLC). Using a name other than your legal name? Register it as a fictitious name.
   ⏰ Annual report: May 1 ($400 late fee). Fictitious name: renew every 5 years
   Source: Florida Division of Corporations: File Annual Report · Florida Statutes §865.09 (fictitious name registration)

Local (Fort Lauderdale / Broward County)

1. City of Fort Lauderdale Business Tax Receipt
   Required for most businesses in the city, including home-based businesses, mobile vendors and food trucks. One receipt per location and per classification, displayed at the business. New since October 1, 2026: get zoning approval through a Certificate of Use before applying.
   ⏰ Renewal season July 1 to September 30 each year
   Source: City of Fort Lauderdale: Business Tax
2. Broward County Local Business Tax Receipt
   The City of Fort Lauderdale says most businesses must keep both a city receipt and a separate Broward County receipt.
   ⏰ Verify the county renewal date with Broward County
   Source: City of Fort Lauderdale: Business Tax