California Construction Compliance Requirements

California requires preliminary notices within 20 days of first furnishing labor/materials. Mechanics lien must be recorded within 90 days of completion (direct contractors) or 60 days (subcontractors/suppliers). Conditional and unconditional waivers follow statutory forms per Civil Code 8132-8138.

All public works projects over $1,000 require prevailing wages under Labor Code 1720-1861. Contractors must submit certified payroll records to the Labor Commissioner. DIR registration required for all contractors on public works.

Minimum $1M general liability per occurrence, $2M aggregate. Workers compensation required for all employers. Many projects require $5M+ umbrella coverage. Additional insured endorsement and waiver of subrogation commonly required.

California operates its own OSHA state plan through Cal/OSHA (DOSH). Standards often exceed federal OSHA requirements. Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) required for all employers. Heat illness prevention and COVID-19 standards specific to California.