Conquer California Contractor Law 2025 – Build Your Future with Confidence!

Owner/builders generally do not need a license when they are building or improving their own property. In California, the law allows individuals who are acting as owner/builders to undertake certain projects without requiring a contractor's license, particularly if they are supervising the work and performing most of the labor themselves. This provision is designed to support homeowners taking on their construction or renovation projects, as long as they are not acting as a contractor for others and the project stays within specified limits, such as project size and scope.

The criteria set out by California's Contractors State License Board indicate that certain thresholds need to be met regarding construction costs and the nature of the work being done in order for the owner/builder exemption to apply. If the project exceeds specific monetary limits or involves certain types of work, a license may then be required. Therefore, the understanding that owner/builders generally do not require a license for their own projects assists in encouraging accountability and allowing property owners to manage their assets effectively.