Understanding the California Pool Contractor License: What Homeowners Need to Know

Ask around long enough and you’ll hear it: “Only C-53 contractors can build pools in California.” It’s a common claim—and it’s misleading.

The truth is, both C-53 Swimming Pool contractors and B General Building contractors are legally allowed to build pools in California—and understanding the difference can help you make a better choice.

Who Holds a Valid California Pool Contractor License?

• C-53 (Swimming Pool Contractor): This specialty license is specific to pool construction. C-53s often self-perform much of the work—excavation, plumbing, gunite, and tile.

• B (General Building Contractor): This license allows a contractor to oversee a broader scope of residential and commercial construction, including swimming pools. As long as the project involves two or more unrelated trades (which nearly every pool project does), a B contractor is well within their legal rights to build it.

Think About Building a House

No one expects the person building your house to swing a hammer for every trade.

A licensed B contractor managing a home build will hire:

• Concrete crews for the foundation

• Framers for the structure

• Plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, roofers—each a specialized expert

The same applies to the california pool contractor license. A B contractor doesn’t need to perform every trade—they manage and coordinate licensed specialists to ensure the job is done to code, on time, and to standard.

That’s what general contractors are licensed—and trained—to do.

The Misconception

Some C-53 pool builders claim that only a C-53 is qualified. The CSLB (California State License Board) says otherwise. A B license, when the scope involves multiple trades, is fully authorized to build pools—just as they are to build homes.

In fact, choosing a B contractor often means gaining a broader perspective. They look beyond the pool shell and see the whole picture: drainage, grading, utility integration, patio design, landscaping flow. They’re builders in the fullest sense of the word.

So, Who Should You Hire?

It’s not about the license—it’s about the execution.

• Does your builder coordinate trades with precision?

• Do they see how your pool integrates into the rest of your outdoor space?

• Are they building a feature—or a full experience?

At Maverick Construction, we hold a B General Contractor license. We don’t just dig holes and pour concrete—we design, oversee, and build complete environments. From spa jets to slope retention, we manage the full vision so you don’t have to.

Ready to build more than just a pool?

Let’s design the backdrop to your best days.

#MaverickCustomPools #CaliforniaPoolBuilders #OutdoorLivingRedefined