Joint Operation Uncovers Alleged Unlicensed Contractors in Monterey County Sting

SACRAMENTO, CA – The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) recently collaborated with the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office and the California Department of Insurance (CDI) for a successful undercover operation aimed at identifying unlicensed contractors.

During the operation in Seaside in mid-November, CSLB cited nine individuals for allegedly conducting contracting activities without the required license. These offenders were issued Notices to Appear in criminal court, where they may face legal consequences including fines of up to $15,000 and/or jail time. Engaging in contracting work without a contractor’s license is considered a misdemeanor offense in California.

The individuals targeted during this operation submitted bids ranging from $1,000 to $4,500 for projects that require a contractor’s license. The highest bid was for a landscaping project. A California contractor’s license is required to bid or contract for construction work exceeding $500 in value, including materials and labor.

Unlicensed contractors apprehended in this operation might also face additional charges for advertising their construction services without the necessary license. California law prohibits anyone from advertising construction or home improvement work without a valid license in the advertised classification. If unlicensed individuals advertise contracting services, they must explicitly disclose their lack of licensure and are barred from bidding or contracting for work valued at more than $500.

“CSLB is unwavering in its commitment to protect homeowners from unlicensed contractors,” said CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “Our commitment includes providing consumer education on the importance of hiring licensed contractors. We urge homeowners to verify a contractor’s license before starting any home improvement project in California.”

The operation also revealed that some individuals demanded excessive down payments prior to commencing work. California law strictly limits contractors to requesting no more than 10% of the project cost or $1,000, whichever is less. Violating this provision constitutes a misdemeanor offense punishable by significant fines of up to $5,000 or a potential one-year county jail sentence, or both.