Who’s Really Licensed to Build Your Pool?
Understanding Contractor Licensing in California
B - General Contractor
What It Covers
Authorized to contract and manage projects involving two or more unrelated trades
Role in Pool Projects
Acts as a construction manager overseeing every phase of your pool project
C-53 - Swimming Pool Contractor
What It Covers
Authorized to perform all phases of pool construction directly
Role in Pool Projects
Performs specialized trades like gunite, plumbing, or plaster as a subcontractor
General Contractor (B) vs. Swimming Pool Contractor (C-53)
There are two license types often involved in pool construction: the B license (General Building Contractor) and the C-53 license (Swimming Pool Contractor). Here’s how they differ:
When building a swimming pool, choosing the right contractor isn’t just about design or price — it’s about legal compliance, safety, and accountability. California has strict licensing requirements to protect homeowners, and not all contractor licenses are created equal. At Maverick Construction, we believe in full transparency, and we want you to understand exactly how our licensing works and why it benefits you.
“Do You Need a C-53 to Build a Pool?” — Not Exactly.
One of the most common misconceptions in the industry is that only C-53 contractors can build pools. That’s simply not true.
According to the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), a B license holder can legally contract for a pool as long as the project includes two or more unrelated trades (such as excavation, plumbing, and concrete), and the general contractor doesn’t self-perform specialty work outside their license scope.
More specifically, the CSLB states 'A General Building “B” contractor may also contract for swimming pool work, provided they enter into a subcontract with a licensed C-53 Swimming Pool specialty contractor to perform the actual work.'
That’s exactly how Maverick operates. We don’t pick up the shovel or shoot the gunite ourselves — we coordinate licensed experts in each trade. Our role is to manage the project, protect the timeline and budget, and ensure every element of your pool is done right.
Licensed. Transparent. Built to Last.
We’re fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and every subcontractor we work with is licensed in their specialty. This ensures your pool is not only beautiful — but code-compliant and built to last.
Look up Maverick Construction on the CSLB: License #1127324
Have questions about how our licensing works or want to learn more about the construction process? We’re happy to walk you through it.
