CALIFORNIA CONTRACTORS · PUBLIC WORKS MADE PRACTICAL
Public works isn’t just for the big guys.
Schools need repairs. Cities maintain sidewalks and parks. Counties and state agencies hire contractors for everyday facility work. If you already do this kind of work, public projects may be worth a closer look.
Start with the basics below. No email required.
Think local, everyday jobs.
Schools
Projects can include painting, flooring, plumbing, electrical work and campus repairs.
Cities
Sidewalk fixes, park improvements, landscaping and ongoing maintenance.
Counties
Repairs and upgrades at local facilities are essential to keep agencies clean and safe to the public.
State
Facilities such as Caltrans offices, DMV locations and state universities need maintenance and construction work.
Actual scope, eligibility and bid requirements vary by project and agency.
A PRACTICAL START
Before you chase a bid, check these three things.
1. Have your basics ready.
Keep your contractor license information, business details, insurance information and a short list of the work you perform in one place.
2. Know where to register.
Look at the vendor and contractor registration pages for the City, County, school district or State agency you want to work with. Each agency may use a different system and ask for different requirements.
3. Read the job first.
Check the scope, location, site walk, deadlines, required forms, license classification, insurance and bonding requirements before deciding to bid.
KEEP BUILDING
You don’t have to figure out the whole system at once.
EZ Biz has helped hundreds of California contractors take their first steps into public works since 2018. We explain the process in plain language, help you see what applies to your business and give you a practical path forward.
Our self-paced Public Works Pro plan walks you through the foundation, registrations, finding opportunities, reviewing bid requirements and building your own 30-day action plan.