Bay City News
State, county and city enforcement officials conducted an illegal contracting sting in Brentwood that identified six unlicensed people working as contractors.
The Contractors State License Board partnered with the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and Brentwood police in the two-day operation Oct. 15-16.
All six suspects were given a notice to appear in criminal court, where they may face fines up to $15,000 and possible jail time. In California, it’s a misdemeanor to engage in contracting without the required license.
The suspects submitted bids ranging from $1,550 to $10,300 for various home improvement projects, including work involving concrete, masonry, landscaping, and painting.
State law requires a contractor’s license for any project exceeding $500, including labor and materials.
Officials also focused on violations related to advertising without a license, which is also illegal. Unlicensed contractors must clearly state their lack of licensure in advertisements and are prohibited from bidding or contracting for work over $500.