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Contractor Compliance: Prevailing Wage Information

What is Prevailing Wage?

Prevailing Wage refers to the minimum hourly rate that must be paid to workers on public works projects—such as construction, renovation, or maintenance—funded by public agencies. In California, these rates are set by the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and are typically based on rates outlined in local collective bargaining agreements. The required wage varies depending on the type of work performed and the geographical location of the project, ensuring fair and consistent compensation for workers. All contractors and subcontractors working on qualifying projects are required to comply with these wage requirements.

To access prevailing wage rates, classifications, and compliance resources, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations’ Public Works portal at https://www.dir.ca.gov/Public-Works/Prevailing-Wage.html. This site provides wage determinations, forms, and guidance for contractors, workers, and awarding bodies. If you're unable to locate the specific portal or information you need, you may also search “DIR Prevailing Wage California” in your browser or contact DIR directly for assistance.

Why Prevailing Wages Matter for Contractors

If you're bidding on a project with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, it’s important to understand the implications of prevailing wages. California law requires contractors and subcontractors to pay the prevailing wage for workers on public works projects. Here’s why it’s crucial:

  • Fair Pay for Workers: Ensures that employees are paid a fair wage based on the local standards for the type of work performed.

  • Compliance with State Law: Contractors are legally required to follow prevailing wage laws to avoid penalties and fines.

  • Transparency in Bidding: Including accurate prevailing wage rates in your bid ensures fair competition and helps maintain consistent standards across contractors.

How to Bid Using Prevailing Wages

  1. Review Applicable Wage Rates
    Before preparing your bid, make sure to familiarize yourself with the prevailing wage rates for El Dorado County. Rates vary based on the type of work being done, such as electrical, plumbing, or carpentry.

  2. Include Prevailing Wages in Your Bid
    When preparing your bid for a project with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, your submitted proposal must reflect the prevailing wage rates for all labor. This includes wages for all classifications of work that will be involved in the project.

  3. Certified Payroll Reports
    Once awarded a contract, you will be required to submit Certified Payroll records to the California Department of Industrial Relations to verify that all workers are being paid at least the prevailing wage for their respective job classifications.

  4. Ensure Accurate Classification of Workers
    Correctly classify your workers according to the scope of work to ensure the proper wage rates are applied. Incorrect classification could lead to compliance issues.

  5. Meet Reporting Deadlines
    Make sure to stay on top of required reporting and submit all necessary documentation in a timely manner to avoid any penalties or project delays.

How to Find Prevailing Wage Rates

To find the prevailing wage rates for El Dorado County, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the DIR Website: Go to the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) website at https://www.dir.ca.gov.

  2. Navigate to the Prevailing Wage Portal: Look for the "Prevailing Wage" section.

  3. Search for Your Project Location and Type of Work: Use the search tool to locate the applicable wage rates for El Dorado County and the specific work classifications related to your project. 

Contact Us for More Information   

If you have questions about prevailing wages or the bidding process for projects with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, please reach out to our finance department by email at finance@edhfire.com.

Additional Resources