Nevada rolls out restricted 'B7' license to expand entry; California watching B2 and ADU complaints

Nevada board members described a new restricted residential classification designed to expand legal access for smaller residential projects and to reduce unlicensed work following public concern about contractor failures on accessory dwelling units.

Board member Boyd Martin, speaking for the Nevada State Contractors Board, said the new B7 restricted license was developed through rulemaking and later enshrined by legislation passed this year. The license carries a $7,000 monetary limit, requires a $2,000 bond, at least two years of verifiable trade experience, and completion of a business course. Employers must meet workers' compensation and other standard licensing requirements when applicable.

"We reduced the barriers to entry," Martin told the joint meeting, explaining the policy goal of giving homeowners access to licensed workers on projects such as bathroom and kitchen remodels while also allowing those workers to qualify for Nevada's residential recovery fund and a pathway to full licensure after gaining experience.

Martin said the license scope limits work to improvements on detached single-family residences that do not expand the enclosed footprint, do not exceed three stories above ground, and do not include structural or life-safety trades. The board is implementing public workshops and plans to have the program running ahead of some statutory deadlines.

California board members described the existing B2 residential remodeling license, which requires four years of experience and passing exams. California officials reported roughly 1,280 active B2 licensees; they said they will monitor Nevadas new B7 for consumer-protection outcomes and report back at the end of Nevadas first year of implementation.

California staff also told the meeting they continue to track an increase in complaints tied to accessory dwelling units (ADUs). They flagged several large, high-profile contractor failures where a single firm left hundreds of partially completed ADUs, prompting media coverage and stronger enforcement attention.

Both boards emphasized workers' compensation requirements: Nevada reiterated that workers' comp is required for licensees that employ others and noted a new restricted license is not exempt.

The discussion produced no immediate regulatory changes beyond Nevada's implemented restricted license and California's continuing monitoring. Boards encouraged public workshops, translated licensing materials and tracking of outcomes to inform future adjustments.