One of the most common questions homeowners and property managers ask is: can a C27 contractor do concrete? The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. While C27 contractors specialize in landscaping, their license does allow them to perform certain types of concrete work—but with restrictions. At Concrete Contractor NYC, we often get inquiries about contractor classifications, so this guide explains exactly what a C27 contractor can and cannot do when it comes to concrete.
Understanding the C-27 Contractor License
What Is a C27 Landscaping Contractor?
A C27 license is issued to landscaping contractors by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). This license authorizes them to build, maintain, repair, and install landscaping features, including lawns, plants, irrigation systems, and decorative hardscapes.
C27 Contractor Concrete License Rules
C27 contractors are permitted to perform concrete work only if it is directly related to landscaping projects. For example, building a small patio, walkway, or decorative retaining wall as part of a landscape design falls within their scope.
C27 Landscaping Contractor Scope of Work
The scope includes:
- Planting and irrigation
- Outdoor lighting installation
- Construction of garden walls, patios, and walkways
- Limited concrete and masonry work tied to landscaping
Can a C27 Contractor Do Concrete Work?
Types of Concrete Tasks Allowed Under C27 License
Yes, a C27 contractor can perform concrete work that is considered incidental to landscaping. Examples include:
- Pouring concrete patios and garden walkways
- Installing decorative concrete features like stepping stones
- Building small retaining walls for gardens
C27 Contractor Concrete Restrictions
A C27 contractor cannot handle large-scale structural concrete jobs, such as:
- House foundations
- Commercial concrete slabs
- Structural retaining walls over specific height limits
Can a C27 Contractor Pour Concrete?
Small-Scale vs. Large-Scale Concrete Jobs
- Small-scale jobs: Pouring a patio, pathway, or small driveway section within a landscape design is usually permitted.
- Large-scale jobs: Pouring foundations, big parking lots, or multi-level retaining walls is beyond their legal scope.
When a C27 Contractor Needs a C-8 License
A C-8 Concrete Contractor License is required for structural or stand-alone concrete work. If a landscaping project involves major concrete elements, the C27 contractor must subcontract to a licensed C-8 professional.
Can a C27 Contractor Do Patios and Walkways?
Concrete Patios Within Landscaping Projects
Yes, a C27 contractor can install patios as part of a landscaping job. These patios are typically decorative, non-structural, and integrated with outdoor designs.
Decorative vs. Structural Patio Work
- Decorative patios (stamped concrete, colored finishes) fall within the C27 scope.
- Structural patios that support heavy loads or form part of a building require a C-8 license.
Can a C27 Contractor Install Driveways?
Driveway Installation Under C27 License
C27 contractors can install small residential driveways if they are part of a larger landscaping project.
Limitations and Permit Considerations
For large driveways or those requiring structural grading, permits and a C-8 licensed contractor are required. At Concrete Contractor NYC, we always recommend verifying local permit requirements before hiring a landscaping contractor for driveway work.
Can a C27 Contractor Build Retaining Walls?
Concrete Retaining Walls vs. Masonry Walls
C27 contractors may build retaining walls under 4 feet in height when related to landscaping. Taller, load-bearing walls require a C-29 Masonry or C-8 Concrete license.
Height and Structural Restrictions
- Permitted: Small garden walls for decorative purposes
- Restricted: Tall or structural retaining walls supporting soil loads
Can a C27 Contractor Do Hardscaping?
Concrete Hardscape Features Allowed
Hardscaping is part of the C27 scope, so contractors can build:
- Walkways
- Patios
- Outdoor seating areas
- Decorative concrete steps
When Specialized Licenses Are Required
If the hardscape involves heavy structural work, such as reinforced slabs or multi-level retaining systems, a specialized license (C-8 or C-29) is necessary.
Can a C27 Contractor Do Masonry Work?
Concrete vs. Masonry Scope Under C27 License
C27 contractors may do limited masonry tied to landscaping, such as garden walls or stone pathways.
When to Partner With a Licensed Masonry Contractor
For large masonry structures, fireplaces, or heavy concrete block walls, a licensed C-29 masonry contractor must be involved.
Key Takeaways on C27 Contractors and Concrete Work
What They Can Do
- Small patios, walkways, and decorative concrete features
- Limited retaining walls and garden hardscapes
- Concrete tasks connected to landscaping projects
What They Cannot Do
- Foundations, structural slabs, and tall retaining walls
- Large-scale driveway and commercial concrete work
- Structural or reinforced concrete installations
When to Hire a C-8 Concrete Contractor Instead
If the project involves structural concrete, always hire a licensed C-8 Concrete Contractor. At Concrete Contractor NYC, we specialize in both residential and commercial concrete services, ensuring every project is code-compliant and built to last.
