Local Guide · Irrigation and sprinkler contractors · Florida
Who can install irrigation systems in Florida?
Florida's plumbing contractor scope includes irrigation systems, and state law requires automatic sprinklers to shut off when there's enough moisture. Here is what to check.
Irrigation systems are within the scope of Florida's licensed plumbing contractors. Florida also requires anyone who installs an automatic landscape irrigation system to install and maintain technology, such as a rain sensor, that stops the system during periods of sufficient moisture, and requires licensed contractors to test those devices.
Who licenses irrigation and sprinkler contractors providers in Florida
Florida DBPR, Construction Industry Licensing Board (plumbing contractors). Florida Statutes 489.105 includes irrigation systems in the plumbing contractor's scope. Florida Statutes 373.62 requires moisture-shutoff technology on automatic landscape irrigation systems. Check contractor licenses on DBPR's license search, and ask your county about any local irrigation rules.
Check a license →Key facts for Florida
- Florida's plumbing contractor scope includes irrigation systems.
- Florida requires anyone who purchases and installs an automatic landscape irrigation system to install, maintain and operate moisture-shutoff technology.
- Florida requires licensed contractors working on automatic irrigation systems to test each moisture-inhibiting device or switch.
- Florida's plumbing contractor scope also covers drainage, water supply and backflow-related piping work.
- Florida certified contractors can work statewide; registered contractors only where they qualified locally.
- Florida's minor-work exemption does not apply to anyone who advertises as a contractor, and unlicensed contracting is a first-degree misdemeanor.
Who installs irrigation in Florida?
Florida Statutes 489.105 includes irrigation systems in the plumbing contractor's scope. Check the license on the DBPR license search.
What does Florida require on automatic systems?
Florida Statutes 373.62 requires moisture-shutoff technology, such as a rain sensor, on automatic landscape irrigation systems, and requires licensed contractors to test those devices when they work on a system.
What about watering schedules?
Watering days and times are set by water management districts and local governments. Ask your contractor to program the controller to your area's current rules.
How to choose a provider in Florida
- Check the contractor's license on DBPR.
- Confirm a moisture shutoff device is installed and tested.
- Ask about backflow prevention.
- Program the controller to local watering rules.
Questions people ask
Do Florida irrigation installers need a license?
Irrigation systems are within the plumbing contractor's licensed scope.
Does Florida require rain sensors?
Florida requires technology that stops automatic sprinkler systems during periods of sufficient moisture.
Must the contractor test the rain sensor?
Yes. Licensed contractors must test each moisture-inhibiting device when they work on the system.
Who sets watering days?
Water management districts and local governments.
Where do I check a Florida contractor?
DBPR's license search.
Can a handyman install my sprinkler system in Florida?
Florida's minor-work exemption is narrow and doesn't apply to anyone advertising as a contractor; irrigation falls within the plumbing contractor's scope.
Sources
This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.
