General Information for Contractors

Sonoma County is committed to partnering with qualified, licensed contractors to deliver high-quality construction projects in compliance with state and local requirements. To ensure fair competition and transparency, all contractors must meet state licensing, insurance, registration, and bonding requirements before performing work for the County. Below is an overview of key requirements and procedures to help contractors prepare for bidding and project participation.

Contractor Licensing

• All construction projects, regardless of size or scope, require a State of California Contractor’s License.
• Licenses are verified with the State before issuing a Purchase Order or contract.

Supplier Registration

• Contractors must register through the County’sSupplier Portal to receive bid notifications.
• Step-by-step registration instructions are available on the portal.
• Contractors must also register and meet requirements with the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) Public Works Project regulations.
• Use the State of California DIR online application.

Insurance Requirements

• The Board of Supervisors requires specific, non-negotiable insurance coverage:
  • General Liability with County named as additional insured
  • Automobile Liability
  • Workers’ Compensation
  • Environmental Pollution Liability (as applicable)
• Minimum limits: $1,000,000 per coverage
• Insurance must match the licensed contractor’s name.

Prevailing Wage

• Required for all projects over $1,000 under state law.
• Rates available from the North Coast Builders Exchange or the California Department of Industrial Relations.
• Contractors may be required to submit certified payroll records in compliance with Labor Code Section 1776.

Project Value & Contracting Process

Projects under $60,000

• May be completed in-house or by licensed contractors.
• Typically, 2–3 competitive quotes are requested.

Projects $60,000–$200,000

• Require informal sealed bids from the County’s informal bid list.
  • Informal Bidding Qualification Application
• Contracts of $60,000 or more require a Sonoma County Construction Contract (not a purchase order).

Projects over $200,000

• Require a formal Board-approved contract.
• Must meet bonding and insurance requirements.

Bid Packages

• Include detailed specifications, required documents, and submission instructions.
• Questions:
  • Technical: Contact the project manager listed in the package.
  • Procedural: Contact the Purchasing Division.
• Only written addenda modify bid requirements.
• Alternate offers must be submitted in writing as supplements.
• Incomplete or improperly signed bids will not be considered.

Bonding Requirements

• Bid Bond: Required for projects $60,000 or more (may be required for smaller projects). Typically 10% of project cost.
• Performance Bond: 100% of contract price, guaranteeing full contract performance.
• Payment Bond: 100% of contract price, ensuring payment to subcontractors, laborers, and suppliers.
• Bonds must be executed within 5 days of award and costs included in the bid.

Purchase Orders vs. Contracts

• Purchase Orders: Used for projects up to $59,999.
• Construction Contracts: Required for projects $60,000 or more.

To get started, be sure your company is registered in the County’s Supplier Portal and the DIR system to receive bid opportunities.