Nassau County continues local contractor licensing despite state preemption efforts

Nassau County is continuing to issue local occupational licenses for contractors, a move that impacts builders and tradespeople operating within the county. As of July 1, 2025, the Nassau County Building Department at 96161 Nassau Place in Yulee will continue to issue “registered” contractor licenses through a certificate of competency.

These local licenses mirror the categories, scope of work, and experience requirements established by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for state-certified licenses. The county’s decision comes amidst ongoing state legislative efforts to preempt local occupational licensing for construction trades.

The state’s journey toward eliminating local construction licensing began with House Bill 735, signed into law in June 2021. This bill was initially set to eliminate local licensing in certain specialty trades effective July 1, 2023. However, subsequent legislative actions have altered this timeline.

In May 2023, House Bill 1383 was passed, extending the effective date of HB 735 to July 1, 2024. Most recently, Senate Bill 1142, passed unanimously in the 2024 legislative session and signed on May 29, 2024, pushed the effective date further to July 1, 2025. This latest extension allows Nassau County to maintain its current licensing practices for another year.

The Nassau County Building Department will continue to issue licenses for a wide range of contractor categories. These include Division I contractors such as general, building, and residential contractors. Division II contractors encompass numerous specialties, including sheet metal, roofing, air-conditioning, mechanical, pool/spa services, plumbing, and underground utility work. Electrical and alarm system contractors, along with specialty electrical contractors, are also covered under the county’s licensing program.

The county’s Building Department can be reached at (904) 530-6250 for inquiries regarding contractor licensing requirements.