C-36 compliance in San Diego — CSLB data
San Diego: 488 active C-36 licenses per CSLB (September 2026). Workers' comp on file — 45%. Exempt — 51%.
Right now 3 are suspended for workers' comp and 18 for a bond problem.
San Diego County totals: 1,639 C-36 licenses; 15 suspended for workers' comp, 56 for bonds.
Experience mix: median 10.1 years licensed, 25% new (<3 yrs), 30% veterans (20+ yrs). 48 were issued in the last 12 months.
6% are LLCs, which carry extra CSLB insurance and bond rules (below).
What CSLB requires for a C-36 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-36 licenses in San Diego are suspended?
As of September 2026, 3 for workers' comp and 18 for bond issues, out of 488 active C-36 licenses based in San Diego.
How many new C-36 licenses were issued in San Diego last year?
48 in the 12 months to September 2026. Each needed a $25,000 bond on file before CSLB issued the license.
Do C-36 plumbers need workers' comp?
Yes if you have employees. With no employees you can currently file an exemption; beginning January 1, 2028, CSLB will require workers' comp for all active licenses under SB 1455, except joint ventures.