Which project is generally considered 'public works' subject to prevailing wage?
Explanation
Labor Code §1720(a)(1) defines public works by the source of the money: construction, alteration, demolition, installation or repair done under contract and paid for in whole or in part out of public funds. A homeowner's own remodel involves no public money. Cost alone decides nothing, so the $25,000 commercial building is outside the definition unless public funds pay for it. Public land is not the test either: a privately funded complex on a city parcel is not a public work, while a privately owned building financed with a public subsidy can be.
Law Reference: Labor Code §1720(a)(1)This topic, taught in full in the CSLB Law & Business guide. CSLB Law & Business — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 · 14-day refund →
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- On most public works projects, contractors are required to:
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