What are the rules for Public Works bidding in California?

The fundamental requirement leads to a host of more complicated questions but the basics are the basics everywhere. It all starts with the Public Contract Code, the section of California law that establishes the rules of the road for public works contractors and their customers.

Who is a public works contractor and what does it mean?

The prevailing wage rates are usually, but not always, based on rates specified in collective bargaining agreements. Who is a public works contractor? A public works contractor is anyone who bids on or enters into a contract to perform work that requires the payment of prevailing wages.

What is the public contract code in California?

Public Contract Code (PCC) applies in one respect or another to virtually all-public entities in California. Public Contract Code §1100 contains an express declaration of legislative intent, stating that the purpose of the Code is to:

Can a contractor be removed from a Public Works Project?

Contractors who are required to register but fail to do so are ineligible to bid or work on a public works contract and can be removed from any public works project on which they currently are working.

How to find public works contractors in California?

To view a list of public works contractors with an active registration, use: For more information and to find exact legal definitions and language please see the Public Works Chapter of the California Labor Code.

How much do you get paid on a Public Works Project?

Anyone working on a public works project must be paid prevailing wages as determined by DIR. Projects of $30,000 or more must meet DIR’s apprenticeship requirements.

What are the laws for Public Works in California?

The legal principles discussed in these materials generally apply to all California public works projects. Project administrators and contractors must have a thorough understanding of the bidding laws and processes to ensure compliance with legal requirements.