Florida created state specialty licence categories for Marine Seawall Work, Marine Bulkhead Work, Marine Dock Work and Marine Pile Driving under HB 1383 (2023) and SB 1142 (2024). Since 1 July 2025, local governments may only license specialty types that substantially match the state's categories or are allowed by statute (DBPR). Check any contractor's licence on the DBPR search before you sign.
The licence categories
| Change | What it means | Source |
|---|---|---|
| New state specialty categories | Marine Seawall Work, Marine Bulkhead Work, Marine Dock Work, Marine Pile Driving | DBPR, CILB |
| Old rule repealed | Rule 61G4-15.033 (Marine Specialty Contractor) repealed 5 May 2024 | Florida Administrative Code |
| Local licences | Local specialty licensing extended to 30 June 2025; from 1 July 2025 only types that match state categories or are allowed by s. 489.117 | DBPR, CILB |
| General contractors | Scope unlimited as to work requiring licensure under part I of chapter 489 | Florida Statutes 489.105 |
How to check a licence
- Ask for the full company name and the licence holder's name.
- Search the state DBPR licence lookup and check the category matches the job: seawall, bulkhead, dock or pile driving, or a general contractor.[1][3]
- Check the licence is current.
- Ask who draws the plans. Miami-Dade requires plans by a Florida-licensed engineer at submittal for Class I work.[4]
Questions to ask before you sign
- Which permits will you pull, and who pays the fees?
- Who handles the turbidity barrier and manatee watch?[5]
- Is the new wall designed to my city's height rule?
- What happens to my dock and lift during the work?
- What is the payment schedule, and what is the warranty in writing?
How we work
The work on every SoFlo Marine Construction project is carried out by licensed marine contractors. We are happy for you to check the licence before you sign.
Start with seawall replacement, dock construction or marine construction.
Find a pro in your area
Enter your ZIP code and we will open the quote form for you. It takes about a minute.
Frequently asked questions
Do marine contractors need a state licence in Florida?
Florida now has state specialty licence categories for marine seawall, bulkhead, dock and pile driving work, and general contractors may also do this work. Local licensing of other specialty types was limited from 1 July 2025.
Where can I check a contractor licence in Florida?
On the Florida DBPR licence search. Check the category matches your job.
Sources
- Construction Industry Licensing Board: Archives (HB 1383 / SB 1142 specialty licensing changes), Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Construction Industry Licensing Board. Accessed October 27, 2026.
- Rule 61G4-15.033 Certification of Marine Specialty Contractors (Repealed), Florida Administrative Code (Florida Department of State). Accessed October 27, 2026.
- Florida Statutes 2026, Section 489.105 Definitions, The Florida Legislature (Online Sunshine). Accessed October 27, 2026.
- Class I Permit Application for Coastal Construction and Mangrove Trimming within Miami-Dade County (Revised May 2025), Miami-Dade County RER, Division of Environmental Resources Management (DERM), Coastal Resources Section. Accessed October 27, 2026.
- Standard Manatee Conditions for In-Water Work (2011), Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Accessed October 27, 2026.
