This bill amends the definition of "underground utility and excavation contractor" in section 489.105 of the Florida Statutes, expanding their scope of work to include the installation of underground piping for fire protection systems up to five feet from a building, terminating at a valve, while prohibiting installation inside the building. It also allows these contractors to fabricate, install, alter, repair, and service underground piping for fire protection systems using water as the extinguishing agent, marking a significant change from previous restrictions. The bill reenacts several sections of the Florida Statutes to ensure consistency in references to the definition of underground utility and excavation contractors throughout the law.

Additionally, the bill addresses contractor licensing and supervision for specialty contractors involved in swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas. It permits unregistered individuals to perform specialty work under the supervision of a certified contractor without needing a local license, as long as the work is within the supervising contractor's scope and does not require additional certification. The bill emphasizes local government oversight in contractor licensing and includes provisions for consumer representation on local boards. It also outlines certification requirements for contractors and the conditions for reciprocal agreements between local governments regarding licensing. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 710 Filed: 489.105