Chapter 481, F.S., Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture

Chapter 481 of the Florida Statutes regulates the licensing and practice of architecture, interior design and landscape architecture in Florida, dividing into two main parts: Part I—Architecture and Interior Design (ss. 481.201 to 481.231) and Part II—Landscape Architecture (ss. 481.301 to 481.329).It sets forth definitions and legislative purpose, establishes boards (Board of Architecture and Interior Design and Board of Landscape Architecture) under the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, outlines licensure and examination requirements for architects and interior designers (including internship, renewal, inactive status, business-organization qualification, seals and display of certificate numbers) in Part I.Part II similarly sets standards for landscape architects, including definitions of “landscape architecture” and “landscape design,” licensure requirements, practice standards, discipline and exemptions.The statute’s underlying purpose is to protect the public by ensuring that only qualified persons practise architecture, interior design or landscape architecture, and that those practitioners meet minimum competency and safety standards.