B compliance in Berkeley — CSLB data
Berkeley: 271 active B licenses per CSLB (September 2026). Workers' comp on file — 41%. Exempt — 56%.
Right now 3 are suspended for workers' comp and 11 for a bond problem.
Across Alameda County the count is 3,532, and 172 are suspended for coverage or bond lapses.
Median time licensed: 21.7 years. 11% are under three years old; 53% have 20+ years. 13 were issued in the last 12 months.
6% are LLCs, which carry extra CSLB insurance and bond rules (below).
What CSLB requires for a B 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 B licenses in Berkeley are suspended?
As of September 2026, 3 for workers' comp and 11 for bond issues, out of 271 active B licenses based in Berkeley.
How many new B licenses were issued in Berkeley last year?
13 in the 12 months to September 2026. Each needed a $25,000 bond on file before CSLB issued the license.
Do general contractors need workers' comp with no employees?
Today a B license with no employees can file an exemption. Beginning January 1, 2028 (SB 1455), CSLB will require workers' comp for all active licenses, except joint ventures.