California • Mechanics Lien Deadlines
California Mechanics Lien Deadline Calculator
Learn the exact preliminary notice and lien filing deadlines in California. Then jump into the LienDeadline calculator to see your real project dates in 0.3 seconds.
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California Lien Deadline Overview
Preliminary Notice Deadline
Within 20 days of first furnishing
Mechanics Lien Filing Deadline
90 days after completion (or 30 days if Notice of Completion recorded)
Typical Projects
Building material suppliers, lumber yards, concrete and rebar suppliers working on private construction projects in California.
This page is a simplified summary for material suppliers and does not replace advice from a construction attorney.
How lien deadlines work in California
In California, material suppliers must follow specific deadlines to protect their lien rights. The preliminary notice deadline is within 20 days of first furnishing. The mechanics lien filing deadline is 90 days after completion (or 30 days if notice of completion recorded). Missing either deadline results in complete loss of lien rights for that project.
Preliminary notice rules
- 20-day preliminary notice deadline is strictly enforced
- Late notice limits recovery to work within 20 days of notice
- Deadline can shorten to 30 days if Notice of Completion recorded
Mechanics lien filing rules
- Deadline can shorten to 30 days if Notice of Completion recorded
- 90 days after completion (or 30 days if Notice of Completion recorded)
- Mechanic's Lien must be filed within deadline
Ready to see your real project dates?
Enter your California project dates once. LienDeadline shows you preliminary notice and lien filing deadlines in 0.3 seconds across all supported states.
Frequently asked questions
What is the mechanics lien deadline in California?
90 days after completion (or 30 days if Notice of Completion recorded)
Does California require a preliminary notice?
Within 20 days of first furnishing
What happens if I miss the deadline?
You lose your legal right to file a lien for that project, even if you're still owed money. That's why many suppliers use automated deadline tools instead of spreadsheets.