Local Jurisdictions' Authority Over Certified Contractors

STATE-LICENSED CONTRACTORS

Local Code Enforcement officials MAY NOT exercise disciplinary authority over certified (state-licensed) contractors, EXCEPT for:

1. Violation of the local building code on record with the State of Florida; or

2. Fraud imposed on local consumers.

Local building codes MAY NOT include any manpower requirements, e.g., journeyman requirements. Only "bricks and mortar" issues may be included in a local building code to address types of materials used on construction jobs and acceptable standards for work products.

Local remedy for the above violations is limited to Stop Work orders, which are not considered "disciplinary actions" by the ECLB.

All fines, penalties, and license suspension/revocation are limited solely to the state ECLB. Local jurisdictions may submit a complaint to the ECLB against a state-licensed contractor and provide background on the offense, as well as recommending an appropriate discipline for the ECLB to impose on the contractor.

Local authorities have complete authority to discipline and/or suspend the license of state-registered contractors only.

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(Confirmed by DBPR legal counsel, Jan. 9, 1998)