It depends on the project type and value. The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) publishes the thresholds.
LSLBC thresholds (as published by LSLBC)
- Commercial license: commercial projects of $50,000 or more (labor and materials). "Commercial" means any construction project except residential structures with no more than two dwelling units.
- Residential license: residential construction exceeding $50,000, which includes structures that are part of or adjacent to a residence.
- Home improvement: work on, or adjacent to, an existing residence with a project value of $7,500 or more.
- Electrical, mechanical and plumbing work has its own threshold. For commercial projects LSLBC lists work exceeding $10,000.
How to protect yourself
- Look up the contractor on LSLBC's website before signing.
- Get a written contract that lists the building package, foundation, erection, permits and who pulls them.
- Ask for the engineered, stamped plans LCG requires (see permits).
Thresholds change. Louisiana revised them in 2024, so confirm the current numbers on LSLBC's site.
General information only, not legal or engineering advice. Rules change, so confirm with the agency linked below or a licensed professional before you start work.
Sources
- Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors: Types of Licenses
- Louisiana Legislature: 2024 act on LSLBC thresholds (summary)
Last reviewed: October 2026.
Related: Commercial steel buildings · Metal shops · All guides