Who determines the prevailing wage rates that must be paid on a California public works project?
Explanation
Labor Code §1770 and §1773 make the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations determine the general prevailing rate for each craft and locality, and the rate in effect when the work is performed is the one owed. A contractor cannot set the rate even with the agency's blessing. The awarding body must state in its call for bids that the rates apply, but it copies the Director's determination rather than writing its own. A city council sets its own budget, not the wage determination.
Law Reference: Labor Code §1770; §1773This topic, taught in full in the CSLB Law & Business guide. CSLB Law & Business — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 · 14-day refund →
Practice all 1632 questions free — no signup required.
Own the complete CSLB Law & Business guide — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 →
Related questions on this topic
- Prevailing wage requirements apply to public works projects with a contract value of at least:
- Before a contractor may bid on or be awarded a public works contract, the contractor must be registered with:
- On a public works project, contractors must submit certified payroll records to:
- The prevailing wage that must be paid on a public works project consists of:
- On a public works contract that exceeds $25,000, the prime contractor must furnish:
- An unpaid subcontractor on a public works project can compel the public agency to withhold project funds by serving:
Last reviewed: · editorial process