C-9 compliance in Santa Barbara — CSLB data
Of the 8 C-9 contractors licensed in Santa Barbara, 50% carry workers' comp and 38% claim the no-employee exemption (CSLB, September 2026).
Every one is currently clear of workers' comp and bond suspensions.
Santa Barbara County totals: 48 C-9 licenses; 0 suspended for workers' comp, 1 for bonds.
50% of Santa Barbara's C-9 licenses are 20+ years old, 25% are newer than three years (median 20.5 years). 1 were issued in the last 12 months.
12% are LLCs, which carry extra CSLB insurance and bond rules (below).
What CSLB requires for a C-9 license
- License bond: $25,000 on file with CSLB.
- Workers' comp: required with employees; mandatory for all active licenses from January 1, 2028 (SB 1455).
- LLC licenses: $1M+ liability insurance and a $100,000 employee/worker bond.
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Frequently asked questions
How many C-9 licenses in Santa Barbara are suspended?
As of September 2026, 0 for workers' comp and 0 for bond issues, out of 8 active C-9 licenses based in Santa Barbara.
How many new C-9 licenses were issued in Santa Barbara last year?
1 in the 12 months to September 2026. Each needed a $25,000 bond on file before CSLB issued the license.
Do C-9 drywall contractors need workers' comp?
Yes if you have employees. Solo operators can currently file an exemption; starting January 1, 2028, CSLB will require it for all active licenses (SB 1455), except joint ventures.