C-53 compliance in Santa Ana — CSLB data
Of the 28 C-53 contractors licensed in Santa Ana, 57% carry workers' comp and 43% claim the no-employee exemption (CSLB, September 2026).
Every one is currently clear of workers' comp and bond suspensions.
Across Orange County the count is 328, and 13 are suspended for coverage or bond lapses.
Experience mix: median 9.4 years licensed, 14% new (<3 yrs), 29% veterans (20+ yrs). 1 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-53 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-53 licenses in Santa Ana are suspended?
As of September 2026, 0 for workers' comp and 0 for bond issues, out of 28 active C-53 licenses based in Santa Ana.
How many new C-53 licenses were issued in Santa Ana 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-53 contractors need workers' comp?
Yes with employees; from January 1, 2028 CSLB will require it for all active licenses (SB 1455), except joint ventures.