Decision guide
Concrete (C-8) vs Landscaping (C-27): Who Pours the Patio?
Flatwork is where these two classifications collide. Landscape construction commonly includes some concrete, and concrete contractors commonly work in yards. The dividing line generally tracks whether the concrete is structural and whether it is incidental to a landscape scope.
Concrete (C-8)
Oriented toward concrete construction: foundations, structural slabs, flatwork, and concrete structures.
Landscaping (C-27)
Oriented toward landscape construction: grading for planting, irrigation, planting, and landscape hardscape systems.
Side-by-side criteria
| Criterion | Concrete (C-8) | Landscaping (C-27) |
|---|---|---|
| Core scope | Concrete construction, including structural elements | Landscape systems including irrigation and planting |
| Structural concrete | Generally within scope | Generally outside scope |
| Incidental flatwork | Within scope | Commonly part of a landscape scope |
| Irrigation systems | Generally outside scope | Generally within scope |
| Planting and soil work | Generally outside scope | Generally within scope |
| Exam focus areas | Formwork, reinforcing, mix and placement, finishing and curing | Irrigation layout, grading and drainage, soil preparation, planting |
| Engineered retaining structures | May require engineering and additional classification review | Generally outside scope |
Which one fits you
Lean toward Concrete (C-8) if
- You pour foundations, stem walls, and structural slabs
- Your experience documents formwork, reinforcing, and placement responsibility
- Concrete is the product you sell, not a component of another scope
- You bid concrete packages for builders and engineers
Lean toward Landscaping (C-27) if
- You install irrigation, planting, and landscape hardscape as a system
- Your experience documents grading, drainage, irrigation, and planting
- Concrete appears in your projects as incidental landscape flatwork
- You sell complete landscape projects to homeowners or property managers
Classification scope is defined by CSLB. This comparison summarizes how the two classifications are commonly distinguished; confirm the controlling scope language with CSLB before bidding work.
Frequently asked questions
Can a landscaping contractor pour a driveway?
Some incidental flatwork is commonly part of landscape construction, but structural or standalone concrete work is generally associated with C-8. Compare CSLB scope language against the specific scope you are bidding.
Can a concrete contractor install irrigation?
Irrigation is generally associated with the landscaping classification. Where a project needs both, use a subcontractor or hold both classifications.
What about retaining walls?
Engineered retaining structures can involve structural design and additional classification considerations. Review the specific design with CSLB guidance before bidding.
Where should I verify this before making a decision?
Use the official CSLB classification and applicant pages linked below. Classification scope, examination requirements, and fees change, so treat CSLB as the authority and this page as orientation.