AFA Works to Clarify FL Licensing Law

In 2021, Florida law makers passed HB 735 which prevented local jurisdictions from creating and requiring local licenses beyond those already required by state law. This legislation was filed because local jurisdictions began establishing local registration and licensing requirements for fencing contractors and other trades. Contractors were required to hold state business licenses and multiple local licenses to pull permits in each of their service areas.  

HB 735 is set to go into effect on July 1, 2023. AFA members report that at least two jurisdictions have acted in anticipation of the new law by requiring contractors doing fence or gate work to secure, carry and hold a Florida General Contractors License. The Florida AFA Chapter, supported by AFA, worked with the FL Home Builders Association to explain to lawmakers the unintended consequences of HB 735.   

Because of the AFA’s work with FLHBA, Florida lawmakers have drafted four bills to address how the law is being interpreted at the local level. The legislative session is underway, and AFA continues to advocate for clarifying language for HB 735, and for the benefit of AFA members. 

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