Florida Contractor Advertising Law: Why Your License Number Must Appear Everywhere

Florida’s licensing laws don’t just require you to be certified — they require you to show it.
Every licensed plumber, electrician, roofer, or builder must display their business license number on every advertisement, bid, or public-facing material — no matter the platform.

The goal? To protect consumers and legitimate professionals from unlicensed “handymen” who pose as contractors but aren’t qualified or insured to do the work.

Who Is Considered a Contractor in Florida (and What Isn’t Covered)

Under Florida Statute §489.105, a contractor is defined as anyone who, for compensation, constructs, repairs, remodels, improves, or demolishes a building or structure — or offers to do so.
This covers trades like general contracting, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, and structural building work.

However, not every trade falls under this definition at the state level.
Florida law was updated to prevent local governments from over-licensing small trades that don’t require state regulation. According to §489.117, counties and cities can no longer require local licensing for work such as:

• Painting

• Flooring installation

• Cabinet making or installation

• Decorative tile, stone, or marble work

• Interior non-structural remodeling (without electrical, plumbing, or structural changes)

• Plaster, stucco, caulking, or similar surface work

So, while these professions can freely advertise their services, state-licensed contractors — like electricians, plumbers, and builders — are still legally required to display their license number in all advertising materials.

In other words:

If your trade requires a DBPR-issued license, your advertising must show it.
If your trade is exempt from licensing, you may still want to display local business registration information for consumer trust — but it’s not mandated by Chapter 489.

1. Legal Foundation: The Law Behind It

• The requirement comes from Florida Statute §489.119, part of Chapter 489, which governs the construction industry.

• It mandates that a contractor’s license or registration number appear on every advertisement, bid, offer, or proposal.

• The rule applies to all forms of media — including digital, print, and broadcast.

• The Florida Administrative Code Rule 61G4-12.011 expands “advertisement” to include websites, email, and social media posts.

Simply put: if you promote your contracting business publicly, you must include your license number.

2. What Must Be Disclosed — Where & How

Service Offers, Proposals, and Contracts

• Every written or digital offer must display your license number.

• It should appear near your company name or contact information.

• Applies to printed estimates, emails, PDFs, and online quote forms.

Advertisements (Print, Broadcast, and Online)

• Flyers, billboards, social media posts, websites, and Google ads must all include your license number.

• It must be visible without scrolling or clicking through links.

• For radio or TV, it should be stated clearly in the segment.

Vehicle Signage

• Any work vehicle with company branding must display your license number next to the business name or logo.

• It must be readable and conspicuous, not hidden near the bottom of a panel or door.

Local or County-Specific Ads

• Some counties, like Flagler and St. Johns, require additional local competency certificate numbers alongside your state license.

• Always confirm requirements with your county’s Contractor Licensing Department before advertising.

• Failure to comply may result in fines or suspended privileges.

Exemptions and Exceptions

• Items like letterhead, business cards, envelopes, or promotional giveaways are generally exempt.

• If those items are used for public marketing, it’s safer to include your number anyway.

Digital and Social Media

• Your license number should appear on:

  • Website homepages, footers, and contact pages

  • Social media bios and post captions

  • Email signatures and digital brochures

• Paid ads (Google, Facebook, Instagram) should include the number in the text or lead to a landing page that does.

3. Local Government and County Enforcement

Flagler County

• Requires compliance with F.S. §§ 489.119(6) and 489.521(7).

• License numbers must appear on all local advertising and jobsite signage.

• Unlicensed activity can trigger fines, stop-work orders, or criminal prosecution.

St. Johns County

• Local Ordinance 2002-48 enforces Chapter 489 and mandates that licensed contractors display their license number in all local advertising.

• Violations can lead to fines or suspension of privileges to operate in the county.

Municipal Rules

• Some cities maintain their own competency registration for certain trades.

• Always verify your municipality’s building or licensing department requirements before publishing or printing materials.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

First Offense

• Usually results in a Notice of Noncompliance from the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).

• You’ll have a limited time (typically 30 days) to correct the issue.

Repeat or Uncorrected Violations

• Can result in citations, administrative fines, or suspension of your license under § 489.119(e).

Unlicensed Advertising

• Advertising contracting services without a valid license is a violation of § 489.127.

• May result in civil fines, criminal charges, or felony penalties during declared emergencies.

• Using someone else’s license number is considered fraudulent advertising and can lead to criminal prosecution.

5. Recent Legislative Updates

• Senate Bill 76 expanded contractor advertising disclosures to include new consumer warnings and contract language requirements.

• Enforcement has intensified around digital advertising, as DBPR now monitors social media and websites for compliance.

• Always check the DBPR website for updates before launching any marketing campaign.

6. Best Practices for Compliance

• Audit your materials regularly: Make sure your license number appears everywhere you advertise.

• Keep it consistent: Use a clear label such as “FL License #CFC123456.”

• Prioritize visibility: Avoid tiny print or footer-only placement.

• Update promptly: Replace the number everywhere after renewal or business changes.

• Educate your team: Ensure everyone involved in marketing understands the legal requirement.

• Report fraud: If someone uses your number, file a report with the Florida DBPR immediately.

7. Why It Matters

• Protects homeowners and consumers by confirming your credentials.

• Deters unlicensed individuals who undercut legitimate businesses.

• Builds trust and credibility for your company.

• Creates a fair and transparent marketplace for Florida professionals.

8. Takeaway

If your business falls under Florida’s contractor licensing laws, your license number isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement.
Displaying it proudly shows you’re legitimate, compliant, and part of the solution to stop unlicensed activity across Florida.

PalmCoastLocal.com Disclaimer

The information in this article is provided for general awareness and educational purposes only and reflects Florida regulations as of October 2025.
PalmCoastLocal.com and its contributors are not liable for any errors, omissions, or legal outcomes resulting from the use of this content.
Readers are encouraged to consult the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) or a licensed attorney for guidance specific to their trade, county, or business situation.

Affordable Holiday Feasting: Aldi’s $40 Thanksgiving Deal — What Palm Coast Shoppers Need to Know

As food prices continue to rise and holiday budgets feel tighter, Aldi is once again rolling out its popular “Feast for 10” — a full Thanksgiving-style meal that can feed ten people for around $40 total. For Palm Coast families looking to celebrate without overspending, this deal offers an affordable, flexible way to enjoy the holiday together.

Palm Coast Food Pantries Are Running Low—Here’s How You Can Help
In a town known for its sunshine and southern hospitality, it’s easy to forget that hundreds of families in Palm Coast are quietly struggling to put food on the table. But the shelves at our local food pantries are thinning—and the need is growing.
Palm Coast’s Food Pantries Are Running Low—Let’s Step Up Together

Palm Coast is a place of warmth, generosity, and neighborly care. But right now, many families in our community are quietly facing empty cupboards—and our local food pantries are struggling to keep up.

From Bunnell to Flagler Beach, volunteers are doing everything they can to provide groceries and hope. But demand is rising, donations are slowing, and some pantries are even losing their physical spaces. This isn’t just a seasonal dip—it’s a crisis.
 What’s Causing the Shortage?
More families in need**: With rising rents and grocery bills, more people are turning to pantries for help.
Fewer donations**: Summer and early fall often bring a slowdown in giving, just when shelves need restocking.

😋 How You Can Make a Difference

Palm Coast has always rallied in tough times. Here’s how you can help right now:

 **Drop off shelf-stable food**: Think canned vegetables, pasta, rice, peanut butter, and proteins that don’t require refrigeration.
 **Donate money**: Even a small contribution helps pantries buy fresh items and fill urgent gaps.
 **Volunteer your time**: Whether it’s sorting food or helping with distribution, every hour counts.
- **Spread the word**: Share pantry needs with your neighbors, churches, and social circles.

 Local Pantry Info

Grace Community Food Pantry
Here’s the contact info for

📍 Address

245 Education Way, Bunnell, FL 32110

☎️ Phone

(386) 586-2653

They’re open Saturdays from 10 AM to 1 PM and Sundays from 12 PM to 3 PM. You can learn more or get involved at gracecommunityfoodpantry.org. Let me know if you’d like this added to a flyer or Palm Coast Local listing.

- **St. Vincent de Paul Pantry**
Santa Maria Del Mar Church, Flagler Beach
Open Wednesdays only

Here’s the information you need for the St. Vincent de Paul Pantry at Santa Maria del Mar Church in Flagler Beach:

📍 Location

Santa Maria del Mar Catholic Church
915 N Central Ave, Flagler Beach, FL 32136
Visit Website

☎️ Contact

Food Pantry Phone: 386-693-4806
Church Office: 386-439-2791

🧭 Directions

Located just north of downtown Flagler Beach, the church is easily accessible via N Central Avenue. From Palm Coast, take FL-100 east toward the beach, then turn left onto N Central Ave. The church will be on your right.

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Expert Advice and Seasonal Tips from Mobil Mark if you are a new Floridian or first time car owner.

Florida’s Climate: The Ultimate Car Test

When you ask how many miles a car can truly go, most experts agree it’s not unusual to see vehicles reaching 200,000 miles—and with proper care, even 300,000 to 400,000 miles isn’t out of reach.

But Florida’s subtropical climate can turn that goal into a challenge. Between the blazing heat, humidity, and salt-laden coastal air, your car’s systems endure constant stress. Even if everything looks fine, preventative care is non-negotiable here.

1. Stick to Your Maintenance Schedule — and Then Some

Oil, filters, belts, and brakes wear faster in hot weather. Follow your manufacturer’s schedule, but don’t hesitate to service early.

A few extra oil changes a year are far cheaper than engine repairs. Florida heat also thins oil faster, so choose the grade listed for “severe driving conditions” if your manual offers that option.

2. Fluids Are the Lifeblood of Longevity

In Florida, fluids break down faster than you think. Check and replace these regularly:

• Engine oil

• Transmission fluid

• Brake fluid

• Coolant/antifreeze (vital for summer)

• Power steering fluid

• Windshield washer fluid

Each fluid plays a part in keeping your vehicle cool, lubricated, and efficient.

3. Inspect Belts, Hoses, and Seals Frequently

Rubber parts crack more quickly under Florida’s sun. A belt or hose failure can cause overheating and expensive damage. Inspect them every oil change and replace them at the first sign of wear — not after they fail.

4. Avoid Stressful Driving Habits

Hard Acceleration & Braking
Frequent stop-and-go driving or “punching the gas” wears out your transmission, brake pads, and suspension faster than you realize. Rapid acceleration floods the engine with extra fuel and heat, putting stress on pistons and seals, while sudden braking overheats the rotors and burns through pads. Over time, this leads to jerky shifting, warped rotors, and poor fuel efficiency — issues that worsen in Florida’s high heat.

Idling with the A/C Running
Letting your car idle for long periods while the air conditioning runs might seem harmless, but it forces your cooling system and battery to work overtime. With little airflow through the radiator, the engine runs hotter, and the A/C compressor adds even more strain. In Florida’s climate, this habit quickly wears belts, drains fuel, and shortens component life.

Overloading the Vehicle
Carrying more weight than your vehicle is rated for — whether tools, luggage, or towing beyond capacity — overloads your suspension, tires, and drivetrain. Your brakes must work harder, the engine runs hotter, and your tires can wear unevenly or even fail. In our heat, that combination can lead to tire blowouts or transmission stress.

Why it matters: Each of these habits quietly builds heat, friction, and strain that compound over time. In Florida’s extreme weather, that damage accelerates — shortening your car’s life and driving up long-term repair costs.

5. Guard Against Rust, Sun, and Salt

Even inland drivers in Florida face UV and moisture exposure. Protect your car by:

• Washing often (especially the undercarriage)

• Waxing or ceramic-coating twice per year

• Using a sunshade and parking in shade when possible

• Parking your car in a garage whenever you can — it significantly reduces UV and moisture exposure, preserving paint, rubber, and interior materials.

A quick rinse after a beach visit can save your paint and underbody.

6. Seasonal Check-Ins That Save You Later

Twice a year, give your car a mini “health check”:

• May: Summer readiness (battery, A/C, coolant, belts)

• August/September: Storm-season prep (wipers, tires, charging system)

These small efforts help you avoid breakdowns when you least expect them.

Cars today can go the distance — but Florida drivers have to stay proactive.

As Mobil Mark often says: “It’s not about how old your car is. It’s about how well you’ve treated it.”

Keep up with your maintenance, stay aware of how Florida’s weather affects your vehicle, and you can keep it cruising far beyond what most expect.

Grand Opening Celebration: Lotus Funeral Services

October 10, 2025, marked the highly anticipated Grand Opening of Lotus Funeral Services, an independently owned and woman-led Palm Coast business founded by Nina Guiglotto.