College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
6-2025
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Daniel Knight, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
This senior project researches the impact of regulatory requirements, specifically licensing, insurance, bonding, and permitting, on contractors in California. The study addresses the question: How do regulations affect contractors’ ability to operate and grow? To examine this, qualitative interviews were conducted with six industry professionals, including general contractors, specialty contractors, and design-build firms. Additionally, 25 survey responses were collected from contractors and construction professionals to gain broader insights. The findings reveal that while licensing, insurance, and bonding are seen as foundational for establishing credibility and legal compliance, the permitting process presents the most significant challenge. Respondents consistently described permitting as overly complex, inconsistent between jurisdictions, and a frequent cause of project delays. Many emphasized the need for a more efficient, transparent, and standardized permitting system. Bonding capacity was also identified as a limiting factor for small and emerging contractors, restricting their ability to bid on and pursue larger projects. The study concludes that streamlining regulatory processes, especially permitting, and providing better support for bonding would enhance project efficiency and reduce operational barriers. Improving these systems could foster a more competitive, accessible, and productive construction environment for contractors of all sizes.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/898
Poster Board