CA · Mechanics Lien Law
California Mechanics Lien Law: Deadlines, Notices & Filing Guide
California mechanics lien law is governed by Civil Code §§ 8000–9566. The 20-day Preliminary Notice is the gateway to all lien and stop-notice rights for subcontractors and suppliers.
California mechanics lien deadlines at a glance
All claimants except direct contractors and laborers must serve a 20-day Preliminary Notice on the owner, direct contractor, and construction lender within 20 days of first furnishing.
Direct contractors: 90 days after completion (or 60 days after a recorded notice of completion or cessation). Subcontractors and suppliers: 90 days after completion (or 30 days after a recorded notice of completion).
Suit to enforce the lien must be filed within 90 days of recording.
Public-works stop notices and payment-bond claims have separate deadlines under Civil Code §§ 9100 et seq.; bond claims generally require notice within 15 days of a notice of completion or 75 days of completion.
Primary statute
California Civil Code §§ 8000–9566 (Works of Improvement) · California Civil Code §§ 9100–9510 (Public Works)
View official statuteWho can file a mechanics lien in California?
Direct contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, equipment lessors, and laborers who furnished work or materials authorized by the owner.
Overview of California lien practice
California has one of the most demanding pre-lien notice regimes in the United States. Subcontractors, suppliers, equipment lessors, and design professionals who do not have a direct contract with the owner must serve a 20-day Preliminary Notice on the owner, the direct contractor, and any construction lender within 20 days of first furnishing labor or materials. Failure to do so eliminates lien, stop-notice, and payment-bond rights for any work performed more than 20 days before late service. The recording window depends on whether a Notice of Completion or Cessation is recorded. Suit to foreclose must be filed within 90 days of recording the lien.
Common pitfalls on California projects
Late or missing 20-day Preliminary Notice
California courts strictly enforce the 20-day window. Late notice only preserves rights for work performed within the 20 days preceding service.
Serving notice on the wrong construction lender
Civil Code § 8200 requires service on the construction lender if any. Missing or stale lender information voids the notice as to that party.
Confusing private mechanics liens with public stop notices
Public works require a stop notice or bond claim — there is no recorded lien against public property.
California mechanics lien FAQs
Who has to send a 20-day Preliminary Notice in California?
Every claimant except direct contractors and W-2 laborers. This includes subcontractors, material suppliers, equipment rental companies, and design professionals.
How long do I have to record a mechanics lien?
Direct contractors: 90 days after completion of the work of improvement (or 60 days after a recorded Notice of Completion or Cessation). Subcontractors and suppliers: 90 days (or 30 days after a recorded Notice of Completion).
Do I have to file suit after recording?
Yes. Suit to enforce the lien must be filed within 90 days of recording, or the lien expires by operation of law.
Filing a California mechanics lien or bond claim?
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This page is general information and not legal advice. Statutes change — verify against the official text linked above.