This bill amends section 489.105 of the Florida Statutes, enhancing the definitions and scope of work for swimming pool and spa contractors. It expands the definition of a commercial pool/spa contractor to encompass all phases of construction, repair, renovation, and servicing of various water features, including splash pads and decorative features. The bill also clarifies the specific tasks that these contractors can perform, such as excavation and installation of electrical components, while modifying the definitions for residential pool/spa contractors to align more closely with commercial definitions. Importantly, it emphasizes that residential contractors are prohibited from constructing new commercial pools or spas and clarifies that certain tasks, like direct connections to sanitary sewer systems, are outside their scope of work.

In addition to the amendments related to pool and spa contractors, the bill addresses contractor registration and licensing across various sections of the Florida Statutes. It allows local authorities to issue cease and desist orders against unregistered contractors and clarifies the conditions for contractor registration, including exemptions for certain job scopes that do not require licensing. The bill also outlines the process for issuing certificates to registered contractors and the conditions for claims from the recovery fund. It mandates local governments to maintain disciplinary control over licensed contractors and requires that any reciprocal licensing agreements be filed with the board. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.