What a C-27 license allows
CSLB defines the C-27 Landscaping Contractor classification as follows: “A landscape contractor constructs, maintains, repairs, installs, or subcontracts the development of landscape systems and facilities for public and private gardens and other areas which are designed to aesthetically, architecturally, horticulturally, or functionally improve the grounds within or surrounding a structure or a tract or plot of land. In connection therewith, a landscape contractor prepares and grades plots and areas of land for the installation of any architectural, horticultural and decorative treatment or arrangement.” Source: cslb.ca.gov licensing classifications.
C-27 licenses in California by the numbers
As of September 2026, CSLB lists 11,934 current licenses that include C-27. 57% have workers' comp on file, 40% are filed exempt, and 794 were issued in the last 12 months.
Ownership: 47% sole owners, 45% corporations, 6% LLCs. Suspensions today: 173 for workers' comp, 454 for bonds.
Insurance and bonds a C-27 contractor needs
- $25,000 contractor license bond — required for every active license.
- Workers' comp — A license with employees must carry workers' comp. With no employees you can currently file an exemption; from January 1, 2028 (SB 1455), CSLB will require workers' comp for all active licenses except joint ventures.
- LLC licenses — liability insurance of at least $1 million (up to $5 million by member count) plus a $100,000 employee/worker bond.
- General liability and commercial auto — not required by CSLB for most licenses, but required by nearly every GC, owner and public agency contract.
Landscape GL underwriting separates maintenance from construction and asks about tree trimming height, chemical application, hardscape and retaining walls. Tree work above a certain height is often excluded unless it is disclosed.
Get a quote
Asena Capital Insurance Services compares multiple markets for landscaping contractors and requests additional insured endorsements for you when a contract calls for them. Call (858) 925-9555 or request a quote — only your name, phone and email are required. CA License #6008596.