C-36 compliance in San Francisco — CSLB data
San Francisco: 431 active C-36 licenses per CSLB (September 2026). Workers' comp on file — 45%. Exempt — 52%.
Suspensions today: 5 workers' comp, 19 bond.
Across San Francisco County the count is 431, and 24 are suspended for coverage or bond lapses.
Experience mix: median 17.1 years licensed, 15% new (<3 yrs), 44% veterans (20+ yrs). 21 were issued in the last 12 months.
4% 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 Francisco are suspended?
As of September 2026, 5 for workers' comp and 19 for bond issues, out of 431 active C-36 licenses based in San Francisco.
How many new C-36 licenses were issued in San Francisco last year?
21 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.