The LA County District Attorney filed felony charges against five unlicensed contractors caught operating in wildfire disaster zones, where unlicensed work carries up to three years in prison.
In the wake of the devastating Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon wildfires, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has filed felony charges against five individuals accused of performing unlicensed contractor work in the disaster zones.
The charges came out of a joint operation between the DA's Bureau of Investigation and the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), and they carry serious consequences.
The Law Hits Harder After a Disaster
Under California law, contracting without a license in connection with structures damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster, one where the Governor has declared a state of emergency, is a felony. The penalties include up to three years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
That's a significant step up from the usual misdemeanor charges that unlicensed contractors typically face. California lawmakers specifically wrote these elevated penalties to protect disaster victims, who are often desperate to rebuild and vulnerable to fraud.
A Growing Problem
District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced the charges in December 2025, warning fire victims to be on the lookout for unlicensed contractors taking advantage of the situation. The DA's office has since launched a public awareness campaign across the affected neighborhoods, distributing warning signs in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and Armenian.
The signs include QR codes so residents can quickly report unlicensed contractors on the spot.
The DA's office made one thing especially clear: even if a homeowner knowingly hires an unlicensed contractor, they are still considered a victim of a crime and should report it to the CSLB.
What Licensed Contractors Are Required to Do
California requires licensed contractors to:
- Provide their CSLB license number
- Carry proper insurance and bonding
- Obtain all required permits
- Follow safety regulations
These requirements exist to protect homeowners, and when unlicensed operators skip them, the homeowner is the one left exposed.
The Takeaway
Disasters bring urgency, and urgency creates opportunity for people willing to cut corners. But as this case shows, law enforcement is actively running operations to catch unlicensed contractors in disaster zones, and the charges are felonies, not slaps on the wrist.
If you're a contractor, getting and keeping your license isn't just about following the rules. It's what separates you from the people getting arrested. And if you're a homeowner, always verify a contractor's license before signing anything. In California, you can check at cslb.ca.gov.
At The Licensing Company, we help tradespeople get licensed the right way, with exam prep classes, pre-approved coursework, and a team that won't take your money until you're approved. Visit qualifyingagents.com to get started.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, licensing guidance, or an offer of services. Licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction. For specific compliance questions, contact The Licensing Company for a confidential consultation.